When the Detroit Pistons signed power forward Jon Leuer in the off-season to a four-year, $41-million deal, skeptics scoffed that it was an overpay for a career journeyman.

But 29 games into the season, with Pistons coach Stan Van Gundy openly contemplating a change to the starting lineup, Leuer has emerged as the most likely for a promotion.

Even before the return of Reggie Jackson, the starting group hasn’t performed well this season.

“We have to look at everything, because that lineup has not played well,” Van Gundy said. “Even in the games we've won, that lineup has not played well. So how long are you going to call it an adjustment phase and trot them out there? Or do you make a change?”

Leuer has been one of the most consistent Pistons this season and when you look at the other bench performers, there really is no other option.

And not only has he played well, he could be the perfect remedy for a starting lineup full of guys concerned with touches. Leuer is a low-maintenance player who can perform without Van Gundy calling his number.

But who goes to the bench?

Marcus Morris or Tobias Harris are the candidates considering they are both interchangeable and capable of playing small forward.

Moving Harris to the bench would allow him to become the focal point of the second unit and get plenty of touches. But would the team’s second-highest paid player accept a lesser role willingly?

Morris is probably better suited to guard opposing small forwards and remain in the starting lineup, but he may be more open to moving to the bench.

After an off day Sunday, the Pistons (14-15) are at the Chicago Bulls on Monday. Leuer missed the Pacers game with back spasms so a promotion might have to wait.

Latest Pistons loss, 105-90 to Indiana, has SVG pondering playing time

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

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