Tuesday, June 27, 2017

Detroit Pistons Draft Review

Current Roster
PG: Reggie Jackson/Ish Smith
SG: Luke Kennard/Darrun Hilliard
SF: Marcus Morris/Stanley Johnson/Michael Gbinije
PF: Tobias Harris/Jon Leuer/ Henry Ellenson
C: Andre Drummond/Boban Marjanovic

2017 Free Agents
Unrestricted
G Beno Udrih
C Aron Baynes

Restricted
G Kentavious Caldwell-Pope
G Reggie Bullock

Who They Drafted
1-12 Luke Kennard, SG Detroit
The Pistons and Stan Van Gundy go into the summer without a proven off guard on the roster, and even if KCP is brought back, as seems likely, they'll still need depth. The idea behind drafting Kennard is a good one, considering that he is an excellent shooter, always a key in Van Gundy's offense but also may provide some value with his ability to handle the ball and pass. There is definitely some who believe that Kennard can be a primary ball-handler that will be able to fill two roles for the Pistons, backing up KCP but also playing alongside him if Reggie Jackson doesn't bounce back. This would also help to mitigate Kennard's potential defensive struggles, as the capable KCP can guard the best guard, leaving Kennard the easier assignment. Unless he can really become an actual point guard, Kennard's upside might be limited but he should at least be a role player going forward who's ability to shoot in a variety of ways, off screens, the catch, and the dribble should keep him in the league for a long time.

What They Need Going Forward
Besides the absolute necessity of bringing back KCP, the Pistons don't have a ton of room to operate nor a ton of space on their roster. What will be most important will be deciding if Reggie Jackson can bounce back and become the above-average start he once was or if that ship has sailed and they need to find another point guard (Ish Smith ain't the answer) though again, their resources will be limited barring a trade. They do have some assets to deal, especially they believe Stanley Johnson will take a step forward, opening the door for a trade of Tobias Harris or Marcus Morris, both of whom have definite value.

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