Pistons like idea of keeping Prince, Jackson together

Detroit Pistons coach Stan Van Gundy said he is leaning toward starting Tayshaun Prince on Tuesday night against the Cleveland Cavaliers.

But it won't be so Prince can get a thunderous round of applause when PA announcer John Mason yells his name.

It will be because he prefers the having two newcomers – Prince and point guard Reggie Jackson – with one unit.

"Rather than having one guy in the first unit and one guy in the second unit where we're limited all the time, then we can come off the bench with guys who know more stuff," Van Gundy said today after Pistons practice.

"That's my thought right now, but I won't make a decision for sure until after the walk-through tomorrow. But if (Prince's) comfort level is good, we'll probably go that way."

The Pistons acquired both Prince and Jackson at Thursday's trade deadline – Prince from the Boston Celtics, Jackson from the Oklahoma City Thunder.

After one light practice Saturday, Jackson was thrown into the starting lineup Sunday and produced 17 points, five rebounds, five assists in the 106-89 victory over the Washington Wizards.

Prince arrived Saturday night. He had to travel cross country from Sacramento to Boston to pick up a few things. He went through a light practice Monday and will play tonight.

Prince acknowledged a little rust since he hasn't played in nearly two weeks because of the All-Star break and the trade.

As far as starting?

"I don't have a preference either way," Prince said. "I haven't played in two weeks. That's my only concern – how I'm going to feel (today) as far as my wind and being able to help them right away. That's what every player wants to once they step on the court. They want to help right away."

Contact Vince Ellis at vellis@freepress.com. Follow him on Twitter @vincent_ellis56.