Drummond misses practice to get ailing back examined by doctor

Andre Drummond, who has been dealing with a sore back, missed today's practice, according to reports.

Drummond has played only 11 minutes in the past two games due to a sore back he says he aggravated against the Los Angeles Lakers on Sunday.

He is visiting a doctor in what the team is calling strictly a precautionary measure.

The Pistons still list Drummond as day to day and are operating under the belief that he will heal quickly.

"Now, there's a full mock-up, work-up, whatever, and if there's something different, we'll adjust," head coach Lawrence Frank said today. "So I really don't have any more information until I hear from those guys (medical staff). Obviously, you always proceed with caution, I don't care if the guy's 19 or 39. If it's not the right thing to do, we won't do it."

While nobody seems to believe this is a serious issue or that it is something that could linger after proper rest and treatment, it is still unfortunate as Drummond is by far the most exciting element of every Pistons game. And as the playoffs fade further and further from the realm of possibility, excitement is going to be even more important.

But don't fear too much, Drummond, at least for now, doesn't think his nagging back issue is going to affect his ability to take part in the BBVA Rising Stars Challenge as part of All-Star Weekend.

Drummond laughed off a question about whether he might choose to rest rather thanparticipate in next week's BBVA Rising Stars Challenge, the rookie-sophomore game scheduled Feb. 15, in conjunction with All-Star weekend in Houston.

"I'm gonna play," he said. "More than likely, I'm gonna play."

Good. Drummond deserves to be seen on a national stage, even if just in an exhibition contest. Plus, I envision many blocks and alley-oop dunks to come.