Kevin Garnett to work with Pistons' Drummond, Ellenson

Rod Beard
The Detroit News

Picture Andre Drummond pulling up from the elbow and sinking a jumper with an opposing center in his face. Envision Henry Ellenson driving through the lane and dunking over a defender, spewing a little trash talk as he jogged back down the court.

It seems a little farfetched from what the two Pistons big men have displayed in the past couple of seasons, but it could be a development in their games.

Pistons big men Andre Drummond and Henry Ellenson will get some workout time with retired star Kevin Garnett, a source told The Detroit News.

Drummond and Ellenson will get some workout time with retired star Kevin Garnett, a source told The Detroit News. The source wished to remain anonymous because details have not been finalized by the Pistons.

Garnett is known for his rigorous workout regimens and since his retirement in 2015-16, has worked with big men on several teams to improve their skills.

Garnett notably worked with the Los Angeles Clippers two years ago to work with their post players, including current Pistons forward Blake Griffin.  

It could be a big step for Drummond, who already has two All-Star appearances in his six seasons. He is honing his skill set to include a mid-range jump shot and increased work on 3-point shooting this summer.

Along with Griffin, Drummond will be one of the centerpieces for the Pistons this season, under new coach Dwane Casey, who is looking to turn around a 39-43 record and second straight year missing the postseason.

Ellenson, entering his third season, could be a big beneficiary of Garnett’s mentorship as well. He played sparingly in his first two seasons under Stan Van Gundy, but Casey has mentioned Ellenson — along with Stanley Johnson and Luke Kennard — as critical for the Pistons’ development.

Garnett, 42, is a 15-time All-Star forward and was selected to the all-defensive team 12 times.

There’s another connection as well: Garnett played his last two seasons with the Minnesota Timberwolves under Casey, in 2005-07.

rod.beard@detroitnews.com

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