Kentavious Caldwell-Pope impressed new Pistons head coach Stan Van Gundy with his play this summer, NBA.com reports. "He opened my eyes a lot," Van Gundy said. "More than anything what opened my eyes was the intensity and energy he brings to the floor eve

Caldwell-Pope impressed new Pistons head coach Stan Van Gundy with his play this summer, NBA.com reports. "He opened my eyes a lot," Van Gundy said. "More than anything what opened my eyes was the intensity and energy he brings to the floor every time he plays. He's an all-out guy all the time - practices, games. The other thing I saw is a real competitive side to him that I wasn't really aware of but I saw a real resolve and toughness and competitiveness that I came out excited just by his approach and his mental makeup in the way he goes about things."

Analysis:

As the team's 2013 lottery pick, Caldwell-Pope figures to have a pretty long leash, but it's still nice to hear he's already impressing his new coach. Caldwell-Pope's energy and defense figures to be what earns him playing time, and his role will only grow if he can build on the apparent offensive improvement he flashed during summer league this year.