Sat Oct 12 02:50:00 UTC 2024: ## Veteran Tobias Harris Returns to Detroit Pistons, Ready to Contribute to Young Core
**Detroit, MI** – After missing the first two preseason games due to a bout with COVID-19, veteran forward Tobias Harris returned to practice with the Detroit Pistons on Thursday, eager to make his presence felt.
Harris, who signed a two-year, $52 million deal with the Pistons in July, expressed his excitement about joining the young core, highlighting their energy and commitment to learning. “The energy from the group has been good,” Harris said. “They have been implementing what we have been learning through the whole training camp.”
The 14-year veteran plans to use his experience to facilitate scoring opportunities for his teammates, leverage his size for low-post scoring, and contribute his reliable 3-point shooting. Harris’ catch-and-shoot expertise, honed during his time with the Philadelphia 76ers, is expected to significantly improve Detroit’s floor spacing.
On defense, Harris’ physicality and versatility will enhance the team’s defensive capabilities, allowing him to effectively switch and defend multiple positions. Coach J.B. Bickerstaff praised Harris’ basketball IQ and understanding of the game, noting that his veteran presence will make it easier for younger players to learn and contribute.
“The way they guard him, obviously, will be different with his ability to space the floor,” Bickerstaff said. “And then his IQ and his understanding of what we’re trying to do. He creates that for other guys around him, like his veteran presence just makes people’s jobs easier because he knows how to play the game and make the right play.”
Harris’ arrival is welcomed not only for his on-court contributions but also for his leadership qualities. Former coach Doc Rivers described Harris as a “pro’s pro” who will be a valuable mentor for the developing Pistons roster.
“Tobias is a pillar,” said Pistons owner Tom Gores. “I feel good about the way he’s going to contribute, and he’s solid. You don’t have to worry about any one game. He’s going to show up.”
While Bickerstaff continues to experiment with different lineups throughout the preseason, he confirmed that Harris will be a starting player alongside Jalen Duren and Cade Cunningham. Harris, embracing his role as a veteran leader, expressed his enthusiasm for teaching and guiding the younger players, stating, “It means the world to me to be able to be on the court with them and teach them.”
With Harris back in the fold, the Detroit Pistons are looking forward to the regular season with optimism, confident that his veteran leadership and expertise will help elevate the team to new heights.
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