Raptors at Pistons: Preseason tips off at The Palace

The Detroit Pistons open up their preseason schedule against the Toronto Raptors at The Palace of Auburn Hills on Wednesday night.

Game Tips at 7:30 PM ET -- NBATV and 950AM

Toronto Raptors: 1-0

Detroit Pistons: 0-0

The Situation:

It's the preseason, so there's 17 players jockeying for time to show head coach Lawrence Frank and his staff what they can contribute. Expect to see the starters that ended last season relatively strong -- Greg Monroe, Jason Maxiell, Tayshaun Prince, Brandon Knight and Rodney Stuckey -- on the floor first, but after that, it's anyone's guess as to the different looks (and styles) Frank will show Toronto.

Toronto is playing its second preseason game. They beat Real Madrid in their first game on Monday night. You can head over to Raptors HQ for their preview on tonight's game.

Keys to the Game:

Mix & match -- It's the preseason, so Frank needs to learn what he has in his rookies mixing in with the experienced players, including newcomer Corey Maggette.

Continue to work on and improve upon weaknesses -- It's the preseason and there's no better time for players like Brandon Knight to work on running an NBA offense or Tayshaun Prince not going into Isolayshaun.

Stay healthy -- It's the preseason, so there's nothing worse than injuries in these otherwise meaningless games (see Jonas Jerebko two years ago)

Question of the Game:

Have I mentioned that it's the preseason? Seriously, though, it's just good to have Pistons basketball back. Is this the beginning of something different or more of the same?