Amir Johnson as Starter

The Pistons did not "shake up" the team as everyone thought. The pretty mental pictures of Carmelo wearing blue and red did not happen. Instead we signed Kwame Brown and got a new coach.

But the starting lineup will not be the same as last year. 'Dyess got demoted to the bench and the starting role was handed to Jason Max-, no, Amir Johnson.

In a this way the Pistons did shake up the team.

While it isn't being said this year, I believe most of the "big" trades the Pistons could have made would have somehow involved the inclusion of Amir Johnson. They specifically said that is why they didn't make a trade in the 2007 offseason. Apparently Joe thinks he found gold in the draft (something he has never done).

But, the fact is, Joe isn't alone in this belief. Apparently many GM's think this kid has a real chance to be dynamic big man. It is the only explanation as to why all the GMs request his inclusion in any trade deal. In addition, I have heard many reports from other GMs and scouts that Amir is a player who lots of teams wish they could have on their team. He is athletic, long, and possesses a load of talent.

But he has never really shown the whole package. Sure his 1.3 blocks in 12.3 minutes is impressive, but some people question whether he has the size to throw down inside and score.

Well the answer is he can. Amir is not intended to be an intimidating post scorer like a Yao or a Shaq (in his younger days). Instead he is going to be a guy who will get you offensive rebounds because of his length and put back points. He might be more like a Ben Wallace, but with more offensive talent. The plays will still be called for Rip and Sheed primarily, with Amir being the 5th option. This certainly shakes up the team in a some way. He may not be new blood, but it will be a different offense

As much as other people would like to give Joe credit for this move, I won't. Instead I will praise Michael Curry for realizing that 'Dyess and Maxiell are better off the bench. He also realized that having a tall, long, athletic player will get more rebounds, something the Pistons seriously lacked in the playoffs (see: game 3).

Lastly, Curry realized he has to see exactly what he's got in Johnson. What better way to get the kid acclimated to the pros than giving him the majority of the minutes? Seems to be the best move to make. In fact, those who know me, know that I have been suggesting starting Amir for some time. I have also previously mentioned it in this very blog.

Best case, you get a solid rebounder who puts in 10-15 points a game, becomes a force on the inside blocking shots and forcing defenders to take uncomfortable mid-range shots. Worst case, you have to start Maxiell, a very servicable player (but a player we all know is too short to play well in the post) or McDyess who is getting a bit older.

Personally, I love the move. I think he is going to be a crowd favorite by throwing down some sweet dunks with his long arms and amazing jumping ability. I also think that his defense will be very well respected, even if it doesn't show up in stats like steals and blocks; but it will show up in the opposing team shooting percentage.

So while Josh Smith is still in Atlanta, and T-mac is still in Houston, the Pistons do have a "new" face in the starting lineup, that could provide a boost of energy and a new look that could really change the team and provide that shake up this complacent team so badly needs.