--F Jason Maxiell gets a fresh start to impress a new coach in training camp. Michael Curry never seemed to warm up to Maxiell, feeling he was a subpar perimeter defender with limited offensive skills. After serving as sixth man two seasons ago, Maxiell saw his minutes drop from 21.6 per game to 18.1. Maxiell was also benched four games. He's projected as the primary backup to Charlie Villanueva this season.

--C Chris Wilcox could give the Pistons four national champions among their top six players if he wins the training camp battle for his position. Wilcox played for the 2002 Maryland NCAA Tournament champions. G Ben Gordon and F Charlie Villanueva were members of Connecticut's 2004 title team and G Richard Hamilton led the 1999 UConn squad to its first national championship. F Tayshaun Prince played four years at Kentucky but joined the Wildcats the year after they won the title in 1998. G Rodney Stuckey played two seasons at Eastern Washington but never appeared in the NCAA Tournament.

DRAFT PICKS:

Austin Daye, F, 6-11, Gonzaga (first round) -- Very versatile offensive player whose lack of strength will be a liability defensively. He'll be an upgrade at the backup small forward spot.

DaJuan Summers, F, 6-8, Georgetown (second round) -- The Pistons view him mainly as a small forward, though he played a lot of power forward in college last season. Isn't afraid to mix it up but needs to become a better ball-handler.

Jonas Jerebko, F, 6-9, Sweden (second round) -- The Pistons were impressed with his all-around game and size during a team workout and believe his best position is power forward. Can bull his way onto the roster with a strong summer-league showing.