Auburn Hills — The Pistons haven’t lived up to expectations this season, partly due to the injury to Reggie Jackson, who missed the first 21 games because of knee tendinitis.
The Pistons (26-30) have waded around .500 for most of the season and, as they hit the All-Star break, they’re in position for a playoff spot, holding on to the eighth position. But there’s growing optimism that as Jackson gets more strength in his left knee and gets more acclimated to a new role in the offense, they can make a run in the 25 games after the break.