Oct 12, 2014; Washington, DC, USA; Washington Wizards forward Paul Pierce (34) dribbles the ball past Detroit Pistons forward Caron Butler (31) in the first quarter at Verizon Center. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
As we continue to preview the Pistons upcoming season, I’d like to introduce a somewhat optimistic but mostly sarcastic look at each player. It’s simple, what’s the best-case and worst-case scenario for the 2014-15 season? By that, I mean what’s the EXTREME possibility in both.
Let’s have a little fun with the Pistons’ preview season:
BEST CASE: Age is just a number as Butler replicates the success he had in Oklahoma City and Milwaukee last season. In a Detroit locker room desperate for leadership, Butler fills the role admirably. His levelheaded demeanor and previous relationship with Stan Van Gundy result in the starting small forward job. He plays 70-plus games and finishes the season as Detroit’s heart and soul.
WORST CASE: Butler turns out being a comfort signing for Van Gundy. His age shows, and that success he had last season? Yeah, that was last season. Butler misses half the season and never finds a rhythm on the court when he does play. He’s a leader, but it’s tough to lead when you’re in a suit — ask Chauncey Billups. Despite being broken, Van Gundy brings his man Butler back for $4M next season.