Time for Kim English and Khris Middleton to play

Essentials

• Teams: Detroit Pistons (1-1) at Milwaukee Bucks (1-0)
• Date: October 13, 2012
• Time: 8:30 p.m.
• Television: Fox Sports Detroit

What to look for

Kim English and Khris Middleton.

The rookie wings are the only two Pistons who haven’t played yet this preseason. That shouldn’t be completely unexpected, considering Lawrence Frank said he’d rather give players longer stretches in the games that they play than put them into every game.

English and Middleton, though they have guaranteed contracts, are Detroit’s lowest-paid players, so if the Pistons cut someone to make room for Terrence Williams (or, I guess, Jonny Flynn), it’s likely English or Middleton. As Patrick wrote yesterday:

I still don’t think either guy earns a spot, but both times I’ve seen Williams on the court, I’ve seen exactly why Frank is intrigued by him as a point guard. He sees the floor incredibly well and, despite being much bigger than most point guards, he’s quick enough to stay in front of them and his length can be really bothersome. If he’s committed to playing defense, the team could use a lockdown perimeter defender who can also pass on the bench. That might be worth finding a spot for if some other players continue under-performing.

I’d be shocked if the Pistons cut someone with a guaranteed contract, but Middleton, and to a lesser extent, English, can’t simply sit and hope Williams and Flynn fail to impress. The rookies must prove themselves, and that likely starts tonight.

Read about the Bucks

Bucksketball (game preview)

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