Pistons’ starting lineup includes Jodie Meeks, Caron Butler, Josh Smith

January 4, 2013; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Clippers small forward Caron Butler (5) controls the ball against the defense of Los Angeles Lakers shooting guard Jodie Meeks (20) during the first half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
January 4, 2013; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Los Angeles Clippers small forward Caron Butler (5) controls the ball against the defense of Los Angeles Lakers shooting guard Jodie Meeks (20) during the first half at Staples Center. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

The Pistons’ starting lineup in their preseason opener against the Bulls tonight will be:

  • Point guard: Brandon Jennings
  • Shooting guard: Jodie Meeks
  • Small forward: Caron Butler
  • Power forward: Josh Smith
  • Center: Andre Drummond

Is that a sign of things to come? Maybe.

It’s also the more-experienced player – Meeks over Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Butler over Kyle Singler, Smith over Greg Monroe – at the positions up for grabs. In the preseason, some coaches give the nod to the longer-tenured veteran. Does Stan Van Gundy? Maybe.

This lineup is a clue to Van Gundy’s thinking, but – in itself – it’s not hard evidence of anything.