However, the Pistons struggled losing four of their first five games, then after a 13–15 start, they lost 13 of their next 15 games, finishing fifth in the Central Division with a 32–50 record. One key piece to the team's future appeared to be Jerry Stackhouse, who had a stellar season averaging 29.8 points per game while being selected for the 2001 NBA All-Star Game. Following the season, Smith re-signed with the Minnesota Timberwolves, head coach George Irvine was fired, rookie Mateen Cleaves was traded to the Sacramento Kings, John Wallace was dealt along with Jud Buechler to the Phoenix Suns, and Owens retired.