Expectations were high for the revamped Detroit Pistons but so far they’ve fallen flat. Owner Tom Gores became impatient and decided to fire new head coach Maurice Cheeks after just four months.
NBA: Josh Smith Offended That Maurice Cheeks Benched Him
The Detroit Pistons brought in a new coach and new players to try and build a more cohesive and successful team. So far it hasn’t exactly worked out. There appears to be a rift building between head coach Maurice Cheeks and the highest paid player on the team, Josh Smith. Cheeks benched Smith last month for missing a practice after Smith was in Atlanta to care for his sick father. Smith let that slide but when Cheeks benched him for the entire second half against the Washington Wizards, he decided it was time to speak out.
NBA: Pistons’ Coach Maurice Cheeks Says Brandon Jennings is Still Learning How to Be a Point Guard
The Detroit Pistons are trying to get back to the playoffs and end a four season drought. With a frontcourt featuring Josh Smith, Greg Monroe and Andre Drummond, they needed an experienced point guard to help run the show. Pistons President of Basketball Operations, Joe Dumars said Brandon Jennings was that guy in his introduction to the team. Now 16 games in coach Maurice Cheeks has a different opinion.
