Detroit Pistons: Frank Jackson is making the most of his opportunity

Detroit Pistons guard Frank Jackson isn’t just another great find by the general manager (GM) Troy Weaver; if the organization isn’t careful, this man may single handily ruin the ‘tank.’

Earlier in the year, the Detroit Pistons traded Derrick Rose, and Delon Wright–that combined with injuries throughout their roster allowed for Saben Lee and Jackson to see a boost in playing time.  Both have been impressive in spurts taking advantage of their opportunities.

The old adage remains true to form; players don’t tank, but organizations do.  How can we possibly be mad about a player entering a ball game and working his tail off for a team we love?  No, seriously, is it healthy to root for a team you are a fan of to lose?

It’s such a difficult question when you are in no man’s land like the Detroit Pistons currently are.  I certainly hope Detroit can secure the best odds possible to land the top overall pick in the 2021 NBA Draft, and at the very least, all we can ask is to remain in the top three.

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It’s no secret the NBA is a star-driven league, sure we can say that about plenty of sports, but it really takes presence in this league.  Drafting in the top five has proven to be vital, but in ’21, I will be sick if the Pistons play their way out of the top three.

When you look at what Troy Weaver has assembled in just one short year, one can only be excited about how adding one of Cade Cunningham, Evan Mobley, or Jalen Suggs would mesh with the likes of Jerami Grant, Killian Hayes, Saddiq Bey, and Isaiah Stewart.

Frank Jackson’s recent play may jeopardize the Detroit Pistons’ odds of landing a top-three pick.

Again, this is more of a light-hearted rant.  I love to see these young players produce, and Jackson is doing just that coming off of the Pistons’ bench of late. But I’d like to reiterate; it’s imperative to be in the best position possible to land in the top three.  After that, there is still lottery luck needed, and Detroit sports fans are well aware of how that goes.

Over his last seven games (before Thursday’s game vs. the Spurs), Jackson is averaging 13.3 points, three boards, shooting 48% from the field and 36% from beyond the arc in just over 22-minutes of work.  Before scoring just three points the other night in Dallas, Jackson had been on a three-game hot streak scoring 18,19, and 20 points in consecutive contests.

At just 22-years old, Jackson has certainly played his way into Detroit’s rotation moving forward, and he’s someone Weaver needs to reward with a contract extension.  He’s clearly exceeded his expectations coming into this season on a two-way deal.