Doug Collins told ESPN.com late Wednesday night that he talked to Pistons president  Joe Dumars and thanked him for the consideration, but would remain an analyst for TNT.

That leaves Avery Johnson as the front runner.

“I had a great talk with Joe (Dumars) and I appreciate being considered for the job, but I’ve decided to take my name out of the running,” said Collins late Wednesday night. “I am honored to have been given the opportunity. I have great affection for the Davidson family (owner Karen and late husband William), great affection for the whole organization and for the fans in Detroit.

“At this time, however, I feel it’s best that I not pursue the job.” Via The Detroit News

UPDATE:
Avery the new coach?

Thanks to team Need4Sheed member Joshua Polaczyk for the Video find.

A little laugh goes a long way.

Our personal Pistons insider Matt Dery of 97.1 The Ticket talks Doug Collins on Fox News.

The Pistons are in Toronto tonight to take on the 23-42 Raptors.  If Detroit pull out a win tonight it will be the first season sweep of Toronto in 11 years.  The sweep aside a win could help the Detroit, who are current sixth in the Eastern Conference,  but only a half game ahead of Philadelphia.

This is the surely a time when Detroit has to buckle down for a more desirable spot come April.

Rasheed is doubtful for tonight’s game and the Pistons will know more about the status of Allen Iverson in a week or so.

“I’m in no rush,” Wallace said a few minutes ago prior to Detroit’s morning shootaround. “I’m taking it day to day.” Via MLive

With the game Dyess played on Wednesday….he deserves more than this tribute mix, but that’s all I have for you right now.

The Good/Bad and More

• Toronto has lost six straight, a slide during which Chris Bosh has averaged 25.5.
• Toronto has the East’s second-worst record.
• The Pistons close the season with a favorable schedule.
• Maxiell with start again for Rasheed.
• The Bench brings the energy.
• Juiced Sports Blog talks to Bill Laimbeer.
• Doug Collins on his deep admiration for Daddy Rich.
• You don’t know what you’ve got ’til it’s gone -- Blaha on Sheed

Tip off is at 7:00 PM and will be locally broadcast on FSN. If you can’t watch it you can listen in locally on 1130 AM WDFN, or follow the game with a live feed on NBA.com.

Keep and eye and ear out for the abundance of Pistons fans in the crowd in Toronto. The comments are yours…