Pistons pick up options on Maxiell, Delfino

Good news from A. Sherrod Blakely's blog:

As expected, the Pistons picked up team options on Jason Maxiell and Carlos Delfino, keeping both players signed through the 2007-2008 season.

The Pistons knew well before training camp started that they would pick up Maxiell's team option, but there was definitely a wait-and-see approach with Delfino.

His talent has never been the issue. It's his heart; specifically, whether his heart was into playing for Detroit. To his credit, he has made the most of his minutes on the floor this season, and is now being allowed to play through - and grow from - his mistakes.

No big surprise. As you can see here, Delfino and Maxiell will stay pretty good bargains for at least 2-3 more years. I know we're starting to sound like a broken record, but with an expensive All-Star-laden starting lineup, developing and retaining relatively cheap homegrown talent is of the utmost importantance -- at least if you're looking to avoid paying the hefty NBA luxury tax.

Delfino, Maxiell update... [MLive.com]