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Detroit Pistons draft targets: Center edition

By David Topham

Feb 25, 2017; Spokane, WA, USA; Gonzaga Bulldogs forward Zach Collins (32) attempts a free throw against the Brigham Young Cougars during the second half at McCarthey Athletic Center. The Cougars upset the Bulldogs by a final 79-71. Mandatory Credit: James Snook-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 25, 2017; Spokane, WA, USA; Gonzaga Bulldogs forward Zach Collins (32) attempts a free throw against the Brigham Young Cougars during the second half at McCarthey Athletic Center. The Cougars upset the Bulldogs by a final 79-71. Mandatory Credit: James Snook-USA TODAY Sports /
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Mar 10, 2017; New York, NY, USA; Creighton Bluejays center Justin Patton (23) reacts after scoring against Xavier Musketeers during the Big East Conference Tournament Semifinals at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Noah K. Murray-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 10, 2017; New York, NY, USA; Creighton Bluejays center Justin Patton (23) reacts after scoring against Xavier Musketeers during the Big East Conference Tournament Semifinals at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Noah K. Murray-USA TODAY Sports /

Justin Patton | C | 6’11” | 20 years old | Creighton

  • Stats last season: 35 games, 25.3 minutes, .676 FG%, .533 3P% (8/15 only), .517 FT%, 12.9 points, 6.2 rebounds, 1.2 assists, 0.9 steals, 1.4 blocks per game
  • Draft range: 14-32, will most likely be available
  • Why he fits in Detroit: Patton has all of the necessary physical tools to be a rim presence, but is also speedy, bouncy and coordinated with sharp instincts and playmaking ability that go above and beyond for someone his size and age.

Justin Patton was in for a workout with the Detroit Pistons on the same day as Allen (6/15). While the two are similar in many ways, Patton differs from the Texas product in that his motor and energy are less of an issue.

Patton is perhaps less physically gifted, but not by much. He still stands nearly 7’0” tall with a 7’2.5” wingspan. He’s very bouncy, agile and coordinated, making him a threat as a rim runner, lob target and pick and roll dive man.

But it’s clear to me at least that his instincts and basketball IQ are a cut above Allen’s, allowing him to be a superior defender and more of a help on offense. Plus, his shooting mechanics and off the bounce game are preferable. He’s not afraid to attack off the dribble or drive and kick, and he’s fast enough to blow by bigs.

Patton didn’t have the impact on the boards or defense that he should have, showing he has plenty to improve upon. Like Allen, he isn’t mentally or physically tough enough just yet, which leads to a lot of lapses on the court.

Patton is just starting to come into his own, making him a project of sorts. He needs a lot of polish, but I think he has a lot to offer in time.

Next: Clippers may have offered trade of Jordan for Drummond

Other potential options:

  • Harry Giles, Duke – worked out for the Pistons on 6/10
  • Ike Anigbogu, UCLA – worked out for the Pistons on 5/23
  • Bam Adebayo, Kentucky – worked out for Pistons on 6/6
  • Tony Bradley, North Carolina – worked out for Pistons on 6/13
  • Ivan Rabb, California – worked out for Pistons on 6/6