Pistons Orlando Summer League: Five non-roster players to watch
By Joe Dexter
Jul 18, 2013; Las Vegas, NV, USA; Miami Heat guard Tony Taylor dribbles the ball through center court as the first quarter of play begins against the Chicago Bulls during an NBA Summer League game at Cox Pavillion. Mandatory Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports
This year’s Orlando Summer League will be an interesting one for the Pistons. Not often does a team go into play without a June draft pick on the roster. This year, the focus will be on second year players trying to etch out their spot on the roster.
It will also be a prime opportunity for non-roster players to impress the likes of Stan Van Gundy and even other coaches and executives across the league. The Pistons don’t have many roster spots open, but they sure do have plenty of space on their newly formed NBA Developmental League team — The Grand Rapids Drive.
The Pistons have invited a wide array of skilled players with them for Summer League play. As always though, there seems to be some common characteristics between those players.
Everyone comes in with energy and toughness as part of their game.
Pistons assistant coach Bob Beyer will look to Kentavious Caldwell-Pope to be his leading scorer. Tony Mitchell will be asked to do his share offensively.
Yet there are still roles that can be filled to earn roster spots down the road.
Here is a look at five players to watch this upcoming week during Summer League play.