When you've been around the NBA as long as Cliff Robinson has, any sign of slippage is viewed as a victory for Father Time.

Yes, Robinson, 34, has shot a dismal 15 percent (3-for-20) from the field in three preseason games.

And yes, Robinson, a former all-league defender, looked completely helpless Tuesday against New Jersey's Keith Van Horn (18 points) and Kenyon Martin (17 points).

But Robinson, even with his struggles during the preseason, is still seen as an integral part of the Detroit Pistons.