Iverson Set to Debut With Chauncey's Number?

The Allen Iverson era for Detroit begins tonight in Toronto. And for those wondering what would happen between Iverson and Rodney Stuckey for that all important jersey #3...it's been settled. The NBA simply wouldn't allow jersey changes in mid-season and if Iverson sticks around or if the Pistons keep him around next season -- he'll have to wait to open the checkbook until then.

For now, he'll have to settle for the jersey that reads #1. Initially, this means nothing. So what, it's just another jersey number and who really cares all that much? Well, the one coincidental thing to consider is that #1 belonged to a Piston legend. Yup, the same Piston legend that just got traded to Denver, Chauncey Billups.

Apologies here if I'm picking a meaningless scab, but I can't help to think that Billups deserved a little better. I'm sure Billups could give two shits about the number and it's not as if the Pistons were going to raise his jersey into the rafters later this season. That said, it means something and it just ain't right.

Billups gave the Pistons all he had and then some throughout the course of his stay. As obvious as it was that he could no longer help the Pistons get over the hump, it still doesn't warrant dishing out his number to the next guy that steps in the locker room. Is this a potential jinx? Nah, probably not, but I just feel like the organization should've at least put Billups number to rest for this season. Then again, what other choice did they really have?

Shit, they couldn't supply Iverson with his traditional #3 and they weren't going to give him #4 or #11. So, I guess that's just how things roll. Yeah, I'm just picking at a scab right now. However, for years Chauncey meant everything to this organization and it's just tough love in this business. That said, it's almost tip-off and moving on - let's welcome the new Chauncey or the new #1 for the Pistons Allen Iverson. Right or wrong on the jersey...who knows?