Friday, February 27, 2009
Hamilton bumps Iverson as starter
Chris McCosky / The Detroit News
ORLANDO -- Richard Hamilton is back in the starting lineup and Allen Iverson, for the first time in his hall-of-fame worthy career, will be coming off the bench.
Coach Michael Curry announced his decision, calling it the final lineup change of the season, after shoot-around Friday -- a shoot-around Iverson missed because of his sore back.
"This change is more than about Allen and Rip," Curry said. "We hope that with this change, more guys will play better. That's what we are seeking. Hopefully this will allow us to execute better, get us back in sync and rejuvenate us."
Curry said he talked at length to Iverson Thursday night. Curry said Iverson isn't happy with the decision but he expects him to handle it like a pro.
"He's been trying to play hurt and he's been frustrated with that," Curry said. "He didn't react any different than Rip did when I told talked him about coming off the bench earlier. Neither guy wants to come off the bench, but this is the hand we've been dealt. If Allen is healthy, once he steps on the court I am convinced he will give us 110 percent."
Iverson might not play tonight. He was scheduled to have an MRI on his back sometime in the afternoon.
The Pistons were 4-12 with Hamilton coming off the bench.