After a publicized departure from OKC, Reggie Jackson landed in Detroit and into the open arms of Stan Van Gundy. SVG must of been beaming when he acquired Jackson, because he exactly fits the mold of the hard-nosed brand of basketball that Gundy promotes. With Greg Monroe gone for Milwaukee and Josh Smith in Los Angeles, the Pistons of 2015-2016 appear to be in better shape through subtraction. Although they will miss Monroe on the boards, Drummond has proved to be more than capable of playing the C position at an elite level. Detroit fans can finally rejoice for a system that allows shooters to get their looks without clogging up the lanes. Unfortunately for Piston fans, Jennings will remain out for the first month of play while still recovering from injuries. Much like at the end of last season, Jackson will be in charge of the show and have full command over the point guard position. With a full season in Detroit, Jackson can hope to build-off of the progress he made last season after starting 27 games following the OKC trade. Jackson put up impressive totals in that period and showed potential to score at a high clip (31 Points against the Miami Heat).

During his time with Detroit last year he managed to average 17.6 Points, 9.2 Assists, 4.7 Rebounds on 44% shooting while starting all 27 games. Jackson's play in Detroit is only highlighted when you compare his averages from OKC that same season: 12.8 Points, 4.3 Assists, 4.0 Rebounds on 43% shooting over 50 games, while starting only 13. The only hindrance to Jackson's MIP bid would be the return of his teammate and fellow point guard Brandon Jennings. The pair of guards have yet to play together in a Detroit jersey, and it is not yet known how the two playing styles will mesh. If Jackson can maintain a high usage rate despite Jennings return, he will have a great case for the award. In my mind if you give Jackson the full year as a starter there is a great possibility that he will win MIP, which may coincide with a sighting of the Pistons in the playoffs in a wide open Eastern Conference. At this point in time I would peg Jackson as the favorite for the 2015-2016 NBA's Most Improved Player Award.