The Detroit Pistons had their eye on two veteran talents ahead of NBA free agency who could further fortify the team’s rotation after a breakthrough season. With free agency now about to open, Detroit is reportedly already turning its attention to backup options.
With the Pistons losing ground in the battle to sign Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Jake Fischer and Marc Stein report that the team is now expected to “focus on signing” Caris LeVert once NBA free agency opens.
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Caris LeVert stats: 12.1 PPG, 3.4 APG< 3.2 RPG, 46.7% FG, 1.7 3PM per game, .119 Win Shares per 48 Minutes
The Pistons originally wanted to poach Naz Reid from the Minnesota Timberwolves, but he re-signed heading into the weekend on a five-year deal worth $125 million. Once Reid was off the board, Detroit’s focus seemingly shifted to Alexander-Walker.
While Minnesota won’t be re-signing him, a sign-and-trade with an Eastern Conference contender seems to be on the horizon. As a result, per Stein and Fischer, the Pistons’ front office is now shifting its focus to LeVert.
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LeVert, a 6-foot-6 wing, played for the Cleveland Cavaliers and Atlanta Hawks this past season. After being traded to Atlanta midseason, he averaged 14.9 points per game with a 0.112 WS/48 in 26.6 minutes per game.
All of this comes at a time when there’s significant uncertainty surrounding Malik Beasley. He is under federal investigation for allegations related ot betting on NBA games during the 2023-24 season as a member of the Memphis Grizzlies. Before the investigation, per Shams Charania, Detroit was negotiating a three-year, $42 million deal to re-sign Beasley.
NFL, MLB & college football writer for Sportsnaut. Graduated from San Diego State University with BA in Journalism, 2019. ... More about Matt Johnson