Detroit Pistons guard Reggie Jackson is beginning to thrive in the Motor City and will likely receive a big payday from the team after the season. His play may even make teammate Greg Monroe, who's reportedly considered staying in Detroit, more inclined to re-sign in the offseason.
Jackson showed glimpses of stardom in Oklahoma City, but the 24-year-old point guard is finally beginning to show it on a consistent basis. Jackson, whom the Thunder traded on Feb. 19, has had a big month. His accomplishments in March include two triple-doubles and setting a career-high with 20 assists in one game, all while averaging 17.9 points, 9.1 assists and 5.2 rebounds in the month. Moreover, he's continuing to acclimate to Detroit and to get a better grasp of the system, evident by him tallying at least 20 points and 10 assists in five of his last seven games.
His play of late is important because it seemingly dispels the analysts who, before this year's trade deadline, questioned if any team would actually consider Jackson worth a max-level contract when he becomes a restricted free agent in July. Assuming Jackson doesn't take a big step back in terms of his progression, it's almost certain team president and coach Stan Van Gundy will at the very least match any offer sheet put in front of Jackson.
The emergence of Jackson as a max-contract candidate makes Monroe's future in Detroit even less certain. He purportedly declined a pricey extension offer from Detroit last summer, and all signs - at least then - pointed to Monroe wanting out in free agency. If Monroe wants a max deal, he may not find it in Detroit. But if money isn't the biggest factor for Monroe, the emergence of Jackson - and the turnaround of the team once waiving Josh Smith - may make Monroe more inclined to re-sign with the Pistons.
In fact, according to one report, Monroe is already considering coming back after the season.
"As for Greg coming back - maybe," Basketball Insiders' Kyler wrote March 23. "I have been told (it's) a consideration and with Josh Smith off the books in many ways, there is cash to give Greg and he knows what Stan is about and is trying to do, so maybe."
There'll reportedly be competition for Monroe, though. Reports indicate teams interested in him include the New York Knicks, the San Antonio Spurs and the Boston Celtics.
