Detroit Pistons point guard Reggie Jackson could miss 6-8 weeks due to knee tendonitis that has bothered him for years, coach Stan Van Gundy told assembled media.
The Pistons are exploring their options to find short-term help at the position while Jackson heals, according to ESPN’s Marc Stein. Offseason signee Ish Smith will step in as the starting point guard, but Detroit could now use a backup.
It’s hard to pinpoint an acute injury for Jackson, but he told reporters in Detroit that he’s suffered from knee pain for “several years.” The Pistons had been cautious with his workload during training camp, but now it appears he will sit out for a much longer period of time.
Surgery is “not likely” for Jackson at this time, Van Gundy said.
The 26-year-old Jackson averaged nearly 19 points and more than six assists per game in his first full season in Detroit last season. He was expected to take another step forward and contend for All-Star status this season.
Smith, signed as a free agent after starting 50 games for the Philadelphia 76ers last season, is a speedy playmaker, but lacks Jackson’s size or scoring ability. The Pistons will ultimately need Jackson to return quickly if they want to rise in the Eastern Conference standings.
