Pre-Draft Outlook
Given the arrival in recent years of talented prospects such as Cade Cunninghan, Jaden Ivey, Jalen Duren, Isaiah Stewart and Ausar Thompson, paired with highly regarded and paid coach Monty Williams, Pistons fans rightfully expected forward progress. Instead, Detroit backslid by three victories. It headed into the offseason seeking help at the very top.
The Way To Go
The No. 5 pick has been good to the Pistons lately, putting them in position to nab Ivey and Thompson the past two years. One player who could address needs and keep the youth development going is Matas Buzelis, favored by multiple mock drafts to go at this spot. Buzelis, who played for the G League Ignite, is a 6-foot-9 wing who is a better scorer than shooter for now and has a decent defensive inclination. An alternative: Trade this pick for a little more veteran leadership.
— Steve Aschburner
Here’s a quick look at Detroit’s current roster entering the Draft:
Under Contract
G: Cade Cunningham
G: Quentin Grimes
G: Jaden Ivey
G: Marcus Sasser
G/F: Troy Brown Jr.
G/F: Ausar Thompson
F: Buddy Boeheim
F: Tosan Evbuomwan
F/C: Isaiah Stewart
C: Jalen Duren
Free Agents
G: Malachi Flynn
G: Jared Rhoden
G: Stanley Umude
G/F: Evan Fournier
F: Simone Fontecchio
F: Taj Gibson
F/C: Chimezie Metu
C: James Wiseman