NBA: Pistons Open Slot For Younger Guards; Clippers To Sign Reggie Jackson

Reggie Jackson was expected to help the Detroit Pistons return to the dominant stage that the franchise has experienced before. Jackson was signed in 2015 on a five-year $80 million deal. During his first season with the Pistons, he averaged 17.6 points per game and a career-best 9.2 assists per outing.

He increased his scoring output the following year by tallying 18.8 points per game. Unfortunately for the franchise, his performance slightly went down as the team continued to struggle. The team has only been to the playoffs twice in the last five seasons. Both of those recent stints led to a sweep, as the franchise hasn’t won a playoff game since the 2007-2008 season.

Jackson’s averages have decreased over time and are currently only scoring 14.9 points per game in only 14 games. He’s been nursing a back injury that has sidelined him for a huge chunk of the season.

With teams scrambling to make additional moves for their roster, Adrian Wojnarowski tweeted that Jackson has agreed to a contract buyout with the Pistons. He plans to sign with the Los Angeles Clippers upon clearing waivers.

Jackson can be a big piece to the Clippers as they gun for the championship. They are currently third in the Western Conference with a 37-18 record. He adds the element of scoring and playmaking that will be useful for teams deep in the playoffs. He is also close friends with Paul George and can play a crucial role in developing on-court chemistry.

Jackson’s departure opens up slots for the younger guards of the Pistons. With Derrick Rose leading the charge as the starting point guard, minutes should follow to whoever is stepping up – possibly Bruce Brown or Jordan Bone.

These two can rack up experience as their team tries to end the regular season on a positive note. With less than half the regular season done, the Detroit Pistons are currently in 12th place in the Eastern Conference. They have a win-loss record of 19-38.