Pistons’ Reggie Jackson targeting a return to peak form

After a shaky second year with the Detroit Pistons, point guard Reggie Jackson is targeting a return to peak form; and nothing less.

Reggie Jackson has spent the entire summer rehabbing his knee. He struggled with tendinitis last year and appeared in just 52 games for the Detroit Pistons.

He didn’t rejoin the Pistons until December last year, but was obviously not feeling 100 percent.

Assistant coach Tim Hardaway Sr. reminded The Detroit News of a universal theme–these things take time.

"“He hasn’t played basketball since April. It’s been a long time. Your timing is going to be there at times and off at times.”"

Nonetheless, after not playing almost any basketball since the past spring, the Pistons coaching staff feels good sending him into the season opener.

"“He’s comfortable and we’re comfortable with him going into the first game and just play basketball — you don’t have to be Superman.”"

For Jackson, the goal is simple. To find his rhythm, and be the best that he can.

"“The goal is to be better than even (2016); the goal is just to have that burst. Once I have that burst, I can sharpen up all the tools. I’ve shot enough shots in my life and I can continue to rep them in practices and each day just to get reps and feel good about them.”"

He’s referencing his first full year with the team, in the 2015-2016 season. Jackson posted career-high numbers of 18.8 points and 6.2 assists per game.

The Pistons point guard wasn’t necessarily impressive in his two-game preseason stint. Jackson shot 37 percent from the field and connected on only one (of twelve attempted) three-pointer.

Backup point guard Ish Smith had praise for Jackson’s recovery, and noted how good he’s looked in practice.

"“He looks good, with his burst, finishing at the basket in practice. He can get up above the rim and finish.”"

As opposed to last year when Jackson was injured, the Pistons are taking a more correct approach regarding his return.

They’ve limited his minutes in preseason to his own personal comfort, and will do the same going forward. Head coach Stan Van Gundy admits he’s learned his lesson from last year.

"“The part I didn’t give enough attention to last year is that there’s more than just the injury healing when guys are coming back. There’s a lot more to it. The injury has got to heal and then there’s getting in shape.”"

Jackson and the Pistons will open their season Wednesday night, hosting the Charlotte Hornets. Tip-off is at 7:00 PM EST.