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Drummond, Kravtsov Give Pistons Inside Presence

Following years of getting pushed around and playing soft interior defense, the Pistons finally got tired of being the little guys.

By adding two defensive-minded centers, the Pistons suddenly look much more imposing in the lane. They were thrilled that Connecticut freshman Andre Drummond slid down to the No. 9 pick in the June draft. Then, they pulled a surprise early in free agency by giving Ukrainian 7-footer Slava Kravtsov a multiyear agreement.

For a team that ranked No. 25 in defensive field-goal percentage and 26th in shot-blocking last season, a frontcourt upgrade was the top priority. Creaky Ben Wallace led the Pistons in blocks at 0.82 per game. Drummond, listed at 6-foot-10 but closer to 7 feet, and Kravtsov are both adept at swatting shots, and they bring unusual athleticism to the position. Centers who can guard pick-and-rolls effectively are also at a premium, and the Pistons feel as if Drummond and Kravtsov will tighten up their defense on those plays.

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