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Pistons news: Detroit becoming a player-orientated franchise; Reggie Bullock's defensive ability

For years the Pistons weren't considered a prime free agency landing spot. With the lack of star-studded interest in the team, Detroit took high-risk flyers on the likes of Ben Gordon, Charlie Villanueva and Josh Smith, hoping to find a winning combination that would propel the team from the Eastern Conference's cellar. The added coaching carousel combined with reports of locker room unrest served as a deterrent for free agents looking for the right situation.

Since the arrival of coach and executive Stan Van Gundy, things have changed. Detroit got rid of an underperforming and overpaid Josh Smith, flipped a bench warming Tony Mitchell for a sharp-shooting Anthony Tolliver, traded for Reggie Jackson and then re-signed the guard to a 5-year, $80 million contract, drafted several solid pieces and gave chances to veterans and young bloods alike.