5.) Chauncey “Mr. Big Shot” Billups
March 10, 2013; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Clippers point guard Chauncey Billups (1) passes the ball against the Detroit Pistons during the second half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
– Yes, Mr. Big Shot is back in the D! As much as it is fitting that Billups will retire a Piston, this was not a “feel good” signing as GM Joe Dumars prominently stated in his press conference earlier this month. “This deal does not happen if he couldn’t play, or produce on the floor,” Dumars said while introducing Chauncey to the press.
Coming to Detroit, even at the age of 36, Billups is still one of the 5 best players in the organization. The skill set that Chauncey has, is not something that diminishes with age. He has one of the highest basketball IQ’s in the game and is one of very best leading a team game in and game out.
“I expect to be the starting point guard,” Chauncey said while meeting with the media, but said if someone beats him out for the job, he is fine with coming off the bench to help the team. Coming off a torn Achilles Tendon, Billups says the injury is completely healed and he is ready for the start of training camp come October.