Pistons: Who should start at guard with Cade Cunningham? A case for each guy

New York Knicks guard Miles McBride (2) defends against Detroit Pistons guard Cade Cunningham Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports
New York Knicks guard Miles McBride (2) defends against Detroit Pistons guard Cade Cunningham Credit: Stephen R. Sylvanie-USA TODAY Sports
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Detroit Pistons, Frank Jackson, Killian Hayes, Cade Cunningham
Detroit Pistons guard Frank Jackson (5) celebrates with center Isaiah Stewart (28) and guard Killian Hayes (7). Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports

Detroit Pistons: The case for Frank Jackson in the starting lineup with Cade Cunningham

I think either of the Jacksons (Frank or Josh) have a case for being in the starting five. Frank Jackson played his way from a two-way contract to being a key member of the bench, shooting over 40 percent from 3-point range and playing active defense.

He would add another shooter around Cade, which should create more space for him to operate and Jackson can hold his own defensively. Is Jackson ready for an expanded role or is he better suited to being an “instant offense” guy off the bench?

The case for Josh Jackson in the Pistons starting lineup with Cade Cunningham

Josh Jackson is going to be one of the most interesting stories of the season, as he is on an expiring contract and could be traded at some point if the Pistons don’t see him as part of the long-term plans.

Jackson is a long and athletic defender who would give the Pistons a huge perimeter defense with plus wingspans all around. Jackson, Cunningham and Saddiq Bey could be a lockdown trio on the perimeter.

The problem is that Josh Jackson has shot the ball poorly, but if he would commit to being more of a purely 3-and-D guy (and his shot improved) he might be the best option for the Pistons defensively and it would give them plenty of data to know if they should re-sign him while potentially building his value for a trade.