A recent ESPN power ranking dropped, ranking each NBA team from 1 to 30 based on their offseason. The Detroit Pistons ranked 28th, finishing ahead of the Brooklyn Nets and the Washington Wizards. Despite changes, the Pistons remain unready for postseason contention in a stronger Eastern Conference.
Pistons president Trajan Langdon is committed to building a contender with strategic roster-balancing moves. With the free agency period in its slow-down stage, the Pistons should still consider some notable free agents. One position that could be more impressive in terms of talent is the point guard spot. After signing his rookie max extension this summer, Cade Cunningham is the franchise player. Currently, Marcus Sasser is projected to be Cunningham’s backup. Despite a tough second half, Sasser, the 25th pick in the 2023 NBA draft, showed promise as a rookie.
Although Sasser improved his perimeter defense in the summer league, he struggled with his shot, hitting only 32% from the field and 25% from three. These numbers have fans questioning if another free-agent guard should take the backup point guard spot. Who are some potential targets, and what skillsets can they bring to help the Pistons win now? Let’s explore these options.
Options to Strengthen the Pistons Point Guard Depth
Tyus Jones
Surprisingly, Tyus Jones remains available for free agency, given all the recent signings. Last season with the Wizards, Jones averaged 12.0 points, 2.7 rebounds, 7.3 assists, and 1.1 steals per game while shooting an impressive 48.9% from the field and 41.1% from three-point range. These statistics highlight his efficiency and ability to contribute across various aspects of the game. His availability on the market is intriguing, especially for teams like the Pistons looking to strengthen their roster with a reliable and experienced guard.
Jones is an ideal backup point guard with a stellar 7.3:1 assists-to-turnover ratio, offering steady playmaking. His court vision, decision-making, and ball-handling skills ensure efficient offense, whether leading the second unit or starting. Additionally, Jones’ ability to knock down shots from beyond the arc adds a valuable dimension to his game, making him a threat both as a facilitator and a scorer. This versatility is particularly beneficial for the Pistons, as they seek to complement Cunningham’s playmaking and scoring abilities. By providing stability and offensive production, Jones can help elevate the Pistons’ backcourt to new heights.
Markelle Fultz
Markelle Fultz, the first overall pick in the 2017 NBA Draft, has had a career marked by various injuries that have hindered his development and consistency. Despite these setbacks, Fultz has shown resilience and determination, pushing through to become a reliable NBA player. Though not meeting number-one pick expectations, his abilities have translated into being a solid point guard.
Fultz may not match the playmaking or shooting prowess of someone like Tyus Jones, but he brings his strengths to the table. His ability to generate offense from the mid-range and attack the basket makes him a valuable asset. Fultz has demonstrated his skill in navigating defenses and creating scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates.
Additionally, Fultz’s size and athleticism give him an edge on the defensive end, where he can guard multiple positions and disrupt passing lanes. His defensive capabilities add another layer to his game, making him a well-rounded option for the Pistons.
The Last Word
Exploring available free agents like Tyus Jones and Markelle Fultz presents the Pistons with potential opportunities to bolster their backcourt. Jones’ efficiency, playmaking, and shooting accuracy make him an ideal candidate for a reliable backup point guard role, capable of providing stability and complementing Cade Cunningham’s skills. Fultz brings offensive creativity, defensive versatility, and resilience, making him valuable despite his injury history.
By making strategic signings, the Pistons can strengthen their roster and improve their competitiveness soon. With smart decisions and player development, the Pistons are on the right path to postseason contention, though progress may be gradual.
