Ish Smith: Contributes four points in preseason loss

It wasn’t exactly a rousing performance from the player that will open the season as the starting point guard following the announcement of Reggie Jackson’s (knee) absence, but Smith does have a proven body of work that should give the Pistons plenty peace of mind. The 28-year-old thrived last season after a return to Philadelphia for the last 50 games, turning a career-high 32.4 minutes per contest into high-water marks of 14.7 points, 7.0 assists, 4.3 rebounds, 1.3 steals and 0.4 blocks. Smith’s ability to quarterback the offense while Jackson is sidelined will certainly be an important component of keeping the Pistons afloat in the early part of the season. Furthermore, if the latter’s current six-to-eight week timetable ends up being extended, Smith could be in for another breakout campaign.