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Tim Frazier
Tim Frazier led the Pistons with 35 minutes in the final preseason game and he took advantage with 15 points and 12 assists. Frazier struggled in the first half but settled into his role in the second and did a respectable job running the offense. He also hit 2-of-3 3-pointers, which is precisely what he needs to do to contribute to this team.
Frazier has been underwhelming in the preseason but finally got a chance to show what he can do against Charlotte, a team that will likely be on the highlight reels of a lot of players this season. Frazier is solid, not spectacular, but is still a huge upgrade over Jose Calderon.
Frazier played a lot of minutes out of necessity, but the Pistons undoubtedly wanted to get an extended look, as Jackson’s health and trade rumors have been swirling. Frazier may end up being important insurance if Jackson is moved in a trade or gets injured. If Frazier can knock down open threes it might give Detroit the opportunity to trade for a more defensive minded guard, such as Frank Ntilikina, as has been rumored this week.
Markieff Morris
Markieff Morris had his best game of the preseason and showed flashes of what the Pistons hoped they were getting when they signed him to a moderate free agent contract. Morris started at power forward and put up an efficient 17 points in 20 minutes, knocking down two three’s and going 7-for-10 from the field overall. With the Alpha Ginger Blake Griffin nursing minor injuries, Morris is going to get big minutes at the beginning of the season and throughout the year when Griffin needs a rest.
Griffin’s health is imperative to Detroit’s chances, so they need production out of Morris, who may also see some minutes at back up center. Morris hasn’t been talked about a lot, but he is one of the most important offseason additions, especially if he shoots well. If the Pistons can get quality minutes out of Morris, they can rest Griffin more often and keep him fresh. With a dearth of quality big men, Morris has to be the guy who holds down the frontcourt when Griffin or Andre Drummond is on the bench.