Report: Stan Van Gundy Considering Starting Lineup Changes as Pistons Struggle

Stan Van Gundy told the media following the Pistons loss to the Cavaliers that changes to the starting lineup may be coming.

From MLive's Aaron McMann:

Van Gundy wouldn't specify what potential changes to the starting five he's considering, only responding to a reporter's question with a succinct "yes," but the unit struggled once again.

A lineup change may be necessary. Detroit's struggles have been frustrating and puzzling. Even without Reggie Jackson, the talent on the roster should be sufficient enough to play better than .500 ball, or at least be competitive. There are a few options for Detroit in this scenario.

Starting Jon Leuer at power forward and sliding Tobias Harris to small forward

This is the most likely scenario if a lineup change is made. Marcus Morris is seriously struggling right now. He's averaging 8.4 points in his last five games. In his last three games, he has scored seven points in each. He's shooting 21% from three in his last five games as well. He has not brought much to the Pistons and placing him with the second unit, even if it is until Reggie Jackson comes back might be best for him.

Starting Stanley Johnson for Marcus Morris

The lineup change most likely includes Marcus Morris. The struggles are bad. Tobias Harris has played well and does not deserve to lose his spot. Johnson has been on a short leash this season, making this move unlikely, but it may work. Johnson has played well with more than one starters on the floor with him. He then is able to let the offense come to him and not try to be a go-to scorer. Johnson does a little bit of everything, although his stats are not very impressive. Trying this change out could not hurt the Pistons, considering the struggles the starting lineup has gone through.

Starting Beno Udrih for Ish Smith

It has gotten to this point. Smith is struggling right now. He shot 1-9 yesterday against the Cavs and was 1-7 in the paint. I am not a proponent of this switch, but Van Gundy does trust Udrih mightly. Smith is averaging 9.6 points and 6.5 assists per game. Udrih is averaging a solid 7.5 points and 3.3 assists off the bench. This move is not likely, but may be in play.

The first chance for the Pistons to try a new ineup is tonight, as they play the Boston Celtics.

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