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Chad Ford examines most likely picks by Detroit Pistons

By Braden Shackelford

Mar 24, 2017; Memphis, TN, USA; UCLA Bruins guard Lonzo Ball (2) drives to the basket against Kentucky Wildcats guard De'Aaron Fox (0) in the second half during the semifinals of the South Regional of the 2017 NCAA Tournament at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 24, 2017; Memphis, TN, USA; UCLA Bruins guard Lonzo Ball (2) drives to the basket against Kentucky Wildcats guard De'Aaron Fox (0) in the second half during the semifinals of the South Regional of the 2017 NCAA Tournament at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Detroit Pistons were selecting Zach Collins in Chad Ford’s last mock draft. While he hasn’t produced a new one yet, he’s already changing his tune.

The Detroit Pistons selected Zach Collins in Chad Ford’s last mock draft. I’m on the record as saying Collins won’t be there by the time the Pistons are on the clock, assuming they do indeed stay at 12.

It appears Ford is in agreement as he has Collins most likely landing spot the Charlotte Hornets, one pick ahead of Detroit.

So who is the most likely candidate to be drafted by the Pistons? What happens if the Pistons land the top pick, second pick, or third pick?

Here’s what Ford is projecting, via ESPN:

"Whom Detroit should draft with the …No. 1 pick: Lonzo BallNo. 2 pick: Markelle FultzNo. 3 pick: Josh JacksonMost likely pick: Harry Giles | PF | Fr. | DukeThe Pistons haven’t been happy with any of their point guard options, and Fultz and Ball would change that in a hurry. Both players would immediately catapult a struggling Pistons team into the playoffs next year.Giles was projected as a potential No. 1 pick going into his senior year. A second knee injury last fall was a major setback, and he never looked anything close to 100 percent during his freshman season. But his upside is enormous. He has an elite combination of athleticism, length, motor and skill. If he’s healthy, he’s the steal of the draft.Alternative pick: Jarrett Allen | C | Fr. | Texas"

Harry Giles doesn’t move the needle for me like he once did. His injuries are a major concern, but really, what does Detroit have to lose? If they shoot for the stars in this case, I think it’s a good thing.

If Giles busts, the most likely scenario is the Pistons miss out on a role player, and they have plenty of those.

I do however, disagree with Ford’s take on the top overall pick. I don’t have insider knowledge, but I find it hard to believe that Stan Van Gundy would pass up on Markelle Fultz, particularly when considering the baggage that Lonzo Ball would bring.

As for his alternative pick, Jarrett Allen could turn into a good defender in the NBA. He’s got a lot of range. He’s also got a decent shot that could be developed. That said, he’s really thin and will likely get worked early in the low post.

Next: Is Zach Collins the next Karl Anthony-Towns?

What do you guys think of Ford’s picks?

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