What happened: Detroit moved John Collins to center with its first substitution against Phoenix. Huerter and Joe checked in with Reed and Robinson checking out. The alignment left Collins as the lone big after Paul Reed opened the game as a starter.

Why it matters: A Collins-at-center unit gives Detroit a smaller, switchable frontcourt look for the 2026-27 season. It creates a backup-center option without changing the starting group. Continued use in preseason would signal a regular rotation role.

What to watch: Watch whether Bickerstaff goes back to Collins at the 5 in the second half. Later preseason games will show if the alignment sticks.