The Pindown: A Detroit Pistons Podcast

This episode of the Detroit Bad Boys Podcast is a special Power Rankings edition! Focusing on the Eastern Conference, Jordan Bellant, Ben Gulker and Jamie Delancey run down the teams from 15 to 1. 

Starting at number 15, it’s the poor old Brooklyn Nets (2:25). At #14 is the slumping Orlando Magic (4:25). The streaking Miami Heat check in at #13 (8:05). 

The new hipster NBA favorite is in at #12, the Philadelphia 76ers (9:35). The #11 New York Knicks might be a train wreck, but they remain in striking distance of the playoffs (12:45). 

The Detroit Pistons are the #10 team in the East (15:50). After discussing their position in the East; we ask if it might be best to miss the playoffs. Ben comes in to offer a fix for the team’s identity crisis (19:10). 

The Chicago Bulls are #9, for now (24:30). 

The Milwaukee Bucks take the last playoff spot in the Power Rankings (28:25). The roller coaster season for the #7 Charlotte Hornets continues (31:40). 

Now, onto teams with winning records! The Indiana Pacers, believe it or not, are the #6 team in the East (35:45). The #5 team is the Atlanta Hawks, although we’re not sure if they want to be (40:15). 

The #4 Washington Wizards are strangely… good (40:00)? The Boston Celtics look like a top three team, even if we all expect a trade at some point (48:15). 

The Toronto Raptors have struggled recently, but remain at #2 (52:20). Of course, #1 is the Cleveland Cavaliers (57:15). The trio force themselves to talk about them, even if they don’t like it. 

The Detroit Bad Boys Podcast is a part of the SB Nation site, Detroit Bad Boys. Subscribe on iTunes and find archived episodes on Blog Talk Radio. For more information, go to DetroitBadBoys.com/Detroit-Pistons-Podcast

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“Let’s talk about what might be, instead of what is.” 

On this episode, Jordan Bellant and Ben Gulker are joined by Jacob Kuyvenhoven to discuss trade rumors and some intriguing fake trades put together by Jacob. 

Starting with the much buzzed Reggie-Ricky swap (2:50), the guys discuss issues of fit and the idea of seeing the Pistons’ starting point guard in trade rumors. 

Now, onto the world of make pretend. If the team was moving on from Reggie, what about for Goran Dragic (10:00)? 

What about trading the back-up point guard? Two trades involving Ish Smith have him moving to the Lakers for Los Williams (15:15) and Brooklyn for Jeremy Lin (22:25). 

Staying in the backcourt, Jacob brings forward a KCP+Baynes trade. The trio debates the idea of moving KCP for a better scoring two-guard (26:15). 

Ben also discusses why Aron Baynes might be expendable at the deadline (32:50). Jacob brings up a spot to trade away Baynes (35:35). 

Marcus Morris has a reasonable contract, but what can he bring back in a trade (38:35)?

Jacob asks if the Pistons care about draft picks and if they ‘should’ care about draft picks (42:35). 

Marcus Morris could be the type of asset to help the Pistons go younger: Like adding Mario Hezonja and a draft pick (45:50).  

Next is “an interesting package for Tobias Harris” (51:10). That leads to a conversation about Harris’ value and how he fits on a championship contender.

The last trade is centered (bad pun) around Andre Drummond (1:02:25). 

The Detroit Bad Boys Podcast is a part of the SB Nation site, Detroit Bad Boys. Subscribe on iTunes and find archived episodes on Blog Talk Radio. For more information, go to DetroitBadBoys.com/Detroit-Pistons-Podcast

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Happy New Year everyone! For their first episode of 2017, Jordan Bellant and Ben Gulker are joined by Lazarus Jackson. Laz comes on to talk about the team’s recent play and to offer reasons to be cautiously optimistic. 

Starting with the Kings game (4:00), Laz breaks down just exactly how the team lost after having an 18 point lead in the third quarter. 

Part of the concern in the Kings game centered around Reggie Jackson. Ben talks about his improved play (7:50) and what it could mean if he continues to play like last year. 

Jordan brings up the future schedule (11:20); Laz and Ben take turns breaking down their expectations for the end of the road trip and next dozen games. 

Talking about team expectations, Jordan asks Ben if a .500 record and fighting for the playoffs is good enough for this season (20:25). Ben also explains the importance of improved defense and rebounding (24:00). 

Laz explains why the defense has been noticeably worse since Reggie has returned (30:50). 

Ben wants to #FreeBoban and calls on SVG to play him more (34:50)! That lead into a conversation about the bench, the need to improve scoring off the bench and… #FreeBeno? (48:45). 

Jordan tries not to derail the podcast, but wants to talk about Carmelo Anthony (55:20). What about Carmelo? You’ll have to listen to find out!

The Detroit Bad Boys Podcast is a part of the SB Nation site, Detroit Bad Boys. Subscribe on iTunes and find archived episodes on Blog Talk Radio. For more information, go to DetroitBadBoys.com/Detroit-Pistons-Podcast

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Jordan Bellant and Ben Gulker are joined by Jamie Delancey for a special mailbag episode of the podcast. The episode starts by talking about the team’s recent struggles (2:40) and the major concerns after some poor performances (5:40). 

Jordan brings up KCP as a bright spot (12:55); Jamie and Ben discuss his rank amongst other shooting guards in the NBA. Jordan also points out the difference between KCP in wins and losses (16:05). 

The next question asks about Jon Leuer as a potential starter (20:20). The question extends to who would Leuer replace: Marcus Morris or Tobias Harris (23:40)?

The attention turns to trades! A mailbag question comparing Andre Drummond and DeMarcus Cousins (27:50) opens up a discussion about Boogie, playing him with Andre and who has the higher ceiling. 

Lazarus Jackson sends Jamie a question about Danilo Gallinari: Good trade target or BEST trade target (40:25)? 

Chris Robbins asks about teams willingness to trade with the Pistons (41:55). 

Jordan closes the mailbag with a question about Paul George and the rumored trade that would bring him to Detroit (44:05). Jordan reworks the deal, making it a little more realistic (52:20). 

Jamie offers one name as a trade target: C.J. McCollum (1:02:35). His extension makes it difficult, but the trio talks about trading KCP for C.J. 

The Detroit Bad Boys Podcast is a part of the SB Nation site, Detroit Bad Boys. Subscribe on iTunes and find archived episodes on Blog Talk Radio. For more information, go to DetroitBadBoys.com/Detroit-Pistons-Podcast

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Jordan Bellant and Ben Gulker are back for a crisp, new episode of the Detroit Bad Boys Podcast. Ben returns just in time to talk about a three-game winning streak, improved play, and a Reggie Jackson sighting!

On this episode, Jordan and Ben run through each of the Pistons’ games over the last week. Starting with the big win over the Hornets (3:05), the back-to-back squeaker against the Celtics (12:35), and the domination of the Atlanta Hawks (20:45). 

Then, moving onto the Magic game (37:10) and the return of Reggie Jackson (39:35)! With his return, improved play from KCP could change the workload for Reggie (41:50). 

Ben points out the difference in the team’s performance between wins and losses (45:00). Part of that difference remains with the team’s rebounding (52:30) and play of Tobias Harris (55:25).

That leads into a larger conversation about style and scheme. Are the Pistons becoming a “Grit and Grind” team (1:01:15)? More importantly, can this style win in today’s NBA? Listen to find out!

The Detroit Bad Boys Podcast is a part of the SB Nation site, Detroit Bad Boys. Subscribe on iTunes and find archived episodes on Blog Talk Radio. For more information, go to DetroitBadBoys.com/Detroit-Pistons-Podcast

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On this episode of the Detroit Bad Boys Podcast, Jordan Bellant and Jacob Kuyvenhoven are joined Lazarus (“Laz”) Jackson to discuss the first fifth of the Pistons’ season. 

The episode starts with Laz giving his overall impression of the team through the first 18 games (2:30). Jacob discusses how the team has played and what needs to change for the offense (4:30). 

Laz picks up on how Reggie can help the ailing offense (5:45). Focusing on the three ball, Laz and Jacob talk about what is the main reason behind the team’s poor shooting (7:05). 

One way to improve the offense could be small-ball lineups. Laz and Jacob ponder what lineup would spark the offense (13:10). 

Jordan’s concern over rebounding and shooting leads to a question about personnel and fit (18:30). Jacob and Laz calm those fears and then Laz offers one thing that is a positive coming from Reggie’s absence (21:00).

Next is a conversation about Marcus Morris and his future role with the team (22:40). If Marcus is moved out of the starting lineup, Jordan asks who moves in (25:00). 

The conversation turns to the Eastern Conference and the current playoff picture (30:50). 

Looking at the teams outside the playoffs, Laz mentions why the Pistons should “Fear the Deer” (36:25).

The podcast wraps with some quick hits the East: Are the Bulls for real (39:50)? Are the Wizards really ‘that’ bad (41:20)? Jacob ends the episode with a question about the best players in the East (44:05). 

The Detroit Bad Boys Podcast is a part of the SB Nation site, Detroit Bad Boys. Subscribe on iTunes and find archived episodes on Blog Talk Radio. For more information, go to DetroitBadBoys.com/Detroit-Pistons-Podcast

 

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Jordan Bellant keeps the podcast rolling this week with Jacob Kuyvenhoven to review the first 10 games of the regular season. While Ben is away on paternity leave from the pod, Jacob fills in and uses the first episode to highlight some of the early season storylines. 

Starting with the focus on the last week of basketball (2:45), Jacob offers his big picture understanding of the Pistons. Jordan is nervous about the team still losing winnable games (4:10), but Jacob calms those fears. 

After talking about the Nuggets game (6:00), it leads to a conversation about Andre Drummond’s early season play (7:25). After talking about how to hide his deficiencies, Jordan asks about pairing AD with Jon Leuer (10:15). 

Jacob offers his biggest concern about the Pistons (12:00), and how that concern is magnified by Ish Smith (13:10). 

Moving on to another disappointing player through ten games: is it time to hit the panic button with Stanley Johnson (17:20)? Also, how the return of the other Reggie (Bullock) could impact Johnson’s role (20:05). 

Next, it’s time to talk about Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (20:55).  Jacob asks a simple question: What’s the downside to signing him (23:00)? Jordan then points out usual criticisms of his game. 

To follow the KCP talk is more KCP trade talk (25:35)! Jacob gives his opinion on KCP+Baynes for Tyreke Evans and Jordan comes off the trade ledge (26:50). 

The duo continues on to the Eastern Conference (31:00). Jacob gives teams that have surprised thus far in the relatively young NBA season (34:00). 

The podcast ends by previewing the Oklahoma City Thunder (38:35). 

The Detroit Bad Boys Podcast is a part of the SB Nation site, Detroit Bad Boys. Subscribe on iTunes and find archived episodes on Blog Talk Radio. For more information, go to DetroitBadBoys.com/Detroit-Pistons-Podcast

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Jordan Bellant and Ben Gulker are joined by Jamie… Delaney? Delancey? We will let him explain. Jamie comes on to talk about one week of Pistons basketball and the team’s roster going forward. 

Starting with the Knicks game (3:50), Ben starts with what he liked from the Pistons’ winning effort. Also, what if the Knicks are just bad (6:10).

Moving onto the Nets game (15:15), it can really only be described as disappointing and bizarre.

Finally for game reviews, the trio talks about the win over the Nuggets (28:05). The Nuggets conversation translates into a talk about KCP, better shooting wing players and the disappearance of Gary Harris (31:50). 

Jordan opens up the possibility of trading KCP at the trade deadline. He offers up the situation that could lead to trading a starter (44:50).

The trade talk starts with the Denver Nuggets (45:50), with Jamie assuming the role of Jeff Bower and explaining his fanboy moment over seeing the team’s GM (47:25). With Ben as SVG, the trade talks continue!

Jordan follows with potential trades for players that formerly played for SVG: Courtney Lee (48:50) and J.J. Redick (50:40). 

The next three trade scenarios are enticing, including younger and more skilled players. Like Alec Burks (52:05) and his less-than ideal spot in Utah. 

What about Danny Green (53:40)? Ben and Jamie disagree on the former Tar Heel.

Finally, the most intriguing trade candidate in the KCP+Baynes sweepstakes: Tyreke Evans (58:50). 

The podcast ends with a sentimental moment (1:02:30). Ben will be on paternity leave from the pod, and Jamie has some breaking news of his own. 

The Detroit Bad Boys Podcast is a part of the SB Nation site, Detroit Bad Boys. Subscribe on iTunes and find archived episodes on Blog Talk Radio. For more information, go to DetroitBadBoys.com/Detroit-Pistons-Podcast

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For the first regular season episode, Jordan Bellant and Ben Gulker are joined by Ben Quagliata (“Quags”), the notorious Aussie Pistons fan, to talk about some basketball. 

The episode talks about the first three games in order and previews the next three games. Starting with the season opener against the Raptors (2:45). Ben starts with his overall impressions after the first game. 

Quags picks up on the Raptors (5:50) and talks about what he wants to see while Reggie is out. That in turn brings up a conversation about Ish Smith, his shooting (mIshes), and comfort in the offense (7:05). 

Leaving the Raptors game, Jordan wants to discuss what to take away from DeMar DeRozan’s big night (9:00). That leads into the frustrating play of Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (10:50). 

Moving onto the Orlando game (14:45), an improved team effort helped the Pistons get their first win of the season! 

The focus turns to the Magic and trying to evaluate the team thus far (19:15). 

Moving onto the Bucks (21:20), and just another day at the office for Andre Drummond (22:20). A conversation about the bench ensues, including Quags talking Baynes (30:35). 

Next is some big picture questions about the Pistons. Can the first three games prove a reversal of outcomes for the Pistons (42:30)? Then, a look ahead to the upcoming schedule (45:25). 

The episode ends with fan questions! Quags reads fan queries captured from DBB Game Threads and Twitter (50:05). Of course, it’s about Been and Baynes’ hair. Baynes is the focus of another question, and Jordan pushes Quags to consider his future in Detroit (54:45). 

The Detroit Bad Boys Podcast is a part of the SB Nation site, Detroit Bad Boys. Subscribe on iTunes and find archived episodes on Blog Talk Radio. For more information, go to DetroitBadBoys.com/Detroit-Pistons-Podcast

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The Detroit Pistons Podcast Season Preview Series concludes with a look at the team. Sean Corp joins Jordan Bellant and Ben Gulker as they go position-by-position to preview the team. 

The episode starts with a bit of breaking news (:50) in the form of a new player joining the Pistons. If you’re a little behind, some more “breaking news” on the Pistons back court and Reggie’s Jackson knee injury (3:20). 

Staying at the point guard spot, Sean breaks down what to expect from temporary backup PG, Ray McCallum (6:00). Then, expectations for Ish Smith as he begins the season as the starting point guard (9:10). Then, Sean offers some Kool-Aid to soothe the anxiety while Reggie is out (17:15). 

Moving onto the wing positions (22:00), is all starts with Caldwell-Pope. Jordan poses this question to Ben: What improvements can KCP make in his game. If he cannot improve his game, are you okay with that (22:35)? Then it’s Sean’s turn: Has KCP’s play justified a max contract (25:20)? 

After looking at the trio of young wing players, the conversation moves to the forwards (37:05). Ben explains Tobias Harris’ value, compared to Marcus Morris (37:30). 

Center is the last position discussed, leading off with the fight for minutes behind Drummond (52:50). The attention turns to Andre Drummond (59:45). Ben starts by describing what he wants from Andre this season. Sean picks up the discussion by talking about how Drummond can make up for his deficiencies (1:02:45). 

Finally, Sean gives his win total (1:04:50) and what to watch in the first few games of the regular season (1:06:10).

The Detroit Bad Boys Podcast is a part of the SB Nation site, Detroit Bad Boys. Subscribe on iTunes and find archived episodes on Blog Talk Radio. For more information, go to DetroitBadBoys.com/Detroit-Pistons-Podcast

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