The Allen Iverson experiment taught the Pistons a valuable lesson: Better to have a roster filled with high-character guys than big talents with oversized egos.

After going through the Iverson circus, among other in-house issues—players coming in late for practices and staying out late before day games—president of basketball operations Joe Dumars is re-emphasizing integrity in his talent acquisitions. That's one of the big reasons why he chose spindly 6-foot-11 forward Austin Daye of Gonzaga with the No. 15 overall pick in the annual draft.

"Over the last nine years, this was probably the toughest year in dealing with issues," he said. "As you know, I put a premium on character, on guys who will represent us the right way. ...More