"Greg Monroe can tell the difference. Before his right big toe was surgically repaired last month, Monroe said it was bothersome putting on his shoes. Now, he is pain-free, and the Pistons'2010 first-round draft pick has returned to getting ready for the upcoming season. Monroe represented the Pistons on Wednesday morning at William G. Milliken State Park and Harbor downtown on the Detroit River and had a few brief remarks before a crowd that included Mayor Dave Bing, City Council President Charles Pugh, kids, business leaders and other government officials. It was the first public appearance for Monroe since the surgery. "It's just a lot more comfortable," said Monroe, a 6-foot-11 power forward from Georgetown. "It was something that gave me a little pain. It can affect you a lot in any sport with any athlete. It's just a lot more comfortable." http://www.freep.com/article/201008...nroe-get-off-on-right-foot-Pistons-Basketball