As Hannes said, there should be no play with piston pin in the small end. It happens that the small end bearings sit very loose.
best test is put bearing in small end, then slide piston pin in so that it only protrudes about 5mm (0.20 inches) on one side. Then take the long side between your fingers and try to move it up/down and fdw/aft while holding the con rod with your other hand. Then do the same with the longer part of the pin on the other side. If you feel no play all is good. If you feel play....all is clear
Good luck!