Changes could be coming soon for the Pistons, even though the season is already lost.

The purchasing agreement of the franchise could be completed in the next week or two, with billionaire financier Tom Gores close to finalizing the deal with current owner Karen Davidson. Gores' exclusive negotiating period was extended in early February and all signs point to a fruitful end. The sale would then have to be approved by the league's Board of Governors.

A coaching change appears imminent as well. Head coach John Kuester has been openly questioned and disrespected by his players throughout the season. The turmoil began in the fifth game of the season, when guard Rodney Stuckey refused to listen to his coach early in the second half and was benched the rest of that game and the next one. Tayshaun Prince then exchanged heated words with Kuester during a timeout at Golden State in mid-November.

The disconnect between coach and team because a public embarrassment over the past month with the benching of long-time starter Richard Hamilton. The problem was never resolved while many of Hamilton's teammates publicly backed him. Hamilton has not played the last six games because of a supposed groin injury after making his only appearance since mid-January.

The five-day break is an ideal time to make a coaching switch. It wouldn't have a huge impact but it would ease the tension in the locker room. Kuester practically hinted at it during his postgame press conference Wednesday. The Pistons return with a home game Tuesday against Houston.

"I know they'll all miss me and a couple of them will want to have individual instructions," Kuester said with a mixture of humor and sarcasm. "The (All-Star) break is good for everyone and hopefully we'll come back with that same type of energy we had (Wednesday)."

If team president of basketball operations Joe Dumars does replace Kuester, he has two able replacements in Brian Hill and Darrell Walker, both former NBA head coaches. Walker might be the better choice because he relates well to the younger players.

A trade or two would also energize the team. Ideally, the Pistons would prefer to deal Hamilton and the two years remaining on his burdensome contract but they may have to reach a buyout agreement if the deadline passes and he doesn't get his rotation spot back.

Prince's expiring contract is another bargaining chip but the Pistons may be better off holding onto him and enjoying the cost savings with a cheaper replacement (Austin Daye) in place. Charlie Villanueva and Ben Gordon, who have disappointed since signing long-term free agent contracts before last season, could also be moved if the right deal comes along, particularly for an expiring contract and/or draft picks.

PISTONS 115, PACERS 109 (OT): Tayshaun Prince had 25 points and 11 rebounds as the Pistons snapped a three-game losing streak overall and a six-game slide against Indiana Wednesday. Ben Gordon scored the first two baskets of overtime and wound up with 16. The Pacers were held to 1-for-7 shooting and made two turnovers in overtime.

Copyright (C) 2011 The Sports Xchange. All Rights Reserved.