Reggie Jackson, Detroit Pistons host Dallas Mavericks

A disappointed Pistons team hosts the Dallas Mavericks Friday after being eliminated from playoff contention on Wednesday. Stan Van Gundy will be a spectator for the second straight postseason.

The Detroit Pistons begin the first of their final four games of the season Friday night.

The Pistons host the Mavericks in Detroit two days after being eliminated from playoff contention by the Sixers.

These remaining games will certainly be experimental for the team looking toward next season. The core of the team should look to get some live reps in before the season ends.

Blake Griffin will not play against the Mavericks but may be available in the following three games according to Rod Beard of the Detroit News:

Andre Drummond should have retaken his role as a playmaker without Griffin in the mix the last four games. However, Drummond only has one assist in each of the last two games.

The Mavericks (24-55) should not pose much of a threat to the Pistons. They are sitting in a close, four-team race to the bottom of the Western Conference. A loss to the Pistons on Friday only increases their chances in the draft lottery.

Griffin’s absence also allows Henry Ellenson to get extended minutes going forward. Ellenson is averaging six points in about 15 minutes per game the last four games.

Reggie Jackson will continue to get valuable reps with the team as he continues to get back into form. The cohesiveness of Jackson and this roster is important to the future of a team with little moves to make.

The Mavericks could use any combination of players against the Pistons Friday. Usage of valuable players like Harrison Barnes and Fayetteville’s very own Dennis Smith Jr. has been limited especially this late in the season. Neither player played in their last game.

Dirk Nowitzki is also out Friday after undergoing ankle surgery Thursday.