Detroit Pistons: There are only 2 locks for the opening night starting lineup

Detroit Pistons: Opening night starting lineup

The center position will also have minutes up for grabs, though third-year player Isaiah Stewart looks to be the clear frontrunner.

Most likely: Isaiah Stewart

Possibilities: Nerlens Noel, Jalen Duren, Kelly Olynyk, Marvin Bagley III

If I had to bet, I’d say Stewart is close to a lock to be the opening night starting center. He had an up and down season but really came on down the stretch, hitting over 50 percent from long range and playing tough and versatile defense.

I also think people are sleeping on Beef Stew a bit this summer and that we are going to see a big leap from him, especially now that there is a rookie gunning for his position.

Coach Casey could go with the veteran Noel to add rim protection, and there is an outside chance that Duren will impress everyone and be impossible to keep on the bench. Olynyk is a long shot and most likely to be one of the primary bench scorers and there is an outside chance that MBIII will move back to center, which some believe he should, considering he is not really a power forward and can’t shoot.

All of this competition is a good thing, as these young players are going to have to earn every minute they get and will have hungry veterans and rookies trying to take their spots.

Other than Cade and Saddiq, nothing is a given for this year’s Detroit Pistons and right now, just about every other spot is up for grabs.