After missing the first 21 games of the 2016-17 NBA season, Reggie Jackson returned from injuries, but it was clear he was not fully recovered. Following a career first season with the Detroit Pistons, he only averaged 14.5 points and 5.2 assists in 27.4 minutes.

While there are still hurdles, the sixth-year guard is starting to feel like himself again heading into the new season according to Keith Langlois of Pistons.com:

“I think it’ll be an extra confidence booster once I do so,” he grins, “but I think the old me’s back.”

Although Jackson has yet to play with his teammates, he expressed confidence in his individual workouts:

“I’m confident I’ll be there. Still yet to play with the guys, so I’m going to have to get out here and play and show that I can get there. But from just getting back into workouts and doing a little skills work, I’m confident the burst is back and is coming back. I still have to put it into action, but I have a lot of confidence in my summer plan and the way my body feels. I’m getting comfortable, getting some explosion back, feeling good, pain free.”

After making great strides under head coach Stan Van Gundy, the Pistons took a step back and failed to make the playoffs this past season. Along with Jackson's injuries, Andre Drummond did not play to his All-Star level and are optimistic both players can return to form.

In the weakened Eastern Conference, the Pistons have an opportunity to return to the playoffs. While Detroit traded Marcus Morris and did not re-sign Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, they did acquire Avery Bradley and are hoping his experience can take them to the next level.