Despite pleading that he wants to play, it looks like Pistons forward Darko Milicic is set for another long season riding the bench.  When asked if, given the veteran depth of the Pistons frontcourt, there would be any playing time left for Milicic, 19, Pistons coach Larry Brown said, ?No. Unless he earns it.?

As often was the case last season, Brown didn?t mince words about Milicic.

?I read all his comments that he wants to play, and I love that,? Brown said. ?But he still has to earn it. That?s going to be a big factor for him.?

?He?s come so far,? Brown said. ?It?s night and day, the difference between his first three days this year and his first three days last year.?

Regardless of progress Milicic faces an uphill battle for playing time with names such as Ben Wallace, Rasheed Wallace, Antonio McDyess, Derrick Coleman and Elden Campbell ahead of him in the rotation.

?Playing against guys that good every day is going to help him,? Brown said. ?They all cheer for him. They all want him to do well. But, you know, I have never had anybody tell me that I had to play Darko before he?s ready.?