Detroit Pistons: Three reasons why Glenn Robinson III deal will pay off
By Travis Gibbs
The Detroit Pistons recently signed Glenn Robinson III during the off-season. There are a few reasons why this move will benefit the team going forward.
The Detroit Pistons acquired three different free agents during the off-season. They signed Jose Calderon, Zaza Pachulia, and Glenn Robinson III to cap-favorable deals.
Calderon brings depth to the point guard position for Detroit, a position group that has struggled over the past two seasons.
The Pistons signed Pachulia following the release of Eric Moreland. He will bring veteran experience and a defensive presence that Moreland couldn’t bring.
Robinson might turn out to be one of the better signings this off-season that went under the radar. Here’s why:
Robinson will push Stanley Johnson
Johnson has been disappointing over the last three seasons. He’s displayed that he can be at least a role player in this league. As a starter, he hasn’t proven that he should be on the floor every night for 30 or more minutes.
Robinson is no slouch even though he’s been not been able to jump start his career in the NBA yet. The small forward position has been thin since the departure of Marcus Morris.
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Since his departure, Johnson really hasn’t had someone in the rear-view that is making him think about his job security. Robinson will do just that.
He’s a young player looking to seize an opportunity. He’s a competitor. Most players don’t get to the NBA without being a competitor.
Robinson fits the system
It’s mentioned above that Robinson has bounced around early on in his career as an NBA player. He does have an intriguing skill set, however.
First of all, he’s extremely athletic. Robinson won the dunk contest in 2017 against some of the best in the game. He’s also very flexible with the ability to play both the small forward position as well as shooting guard.
Most importantly, he’s a good three-point shooter. Last season, he shot 41 percent from long range. It’s promising because he’s improved in this area of his game in each of the last three seasons.
New head coach Dwane Casey wants the team to be taking more three-point shots and more shots around the rim. That fits Robinson’s style.
Robinson is a risk
Most people will associate risk with something that is negative. In this case, it shouldn’t be. The reason that Robinson is an intriguing free agent signing because there’s no definitive answer on what he will turn out to be for the Pistons.
With Calderon and Pachulia, you know what you’re getting. They’re both two veteran guys that will play a small role on the team assuming the core group of players stay healthy.
Robinson could end up taking the starting role from Johnson if he doesn’t improve. Calderon and Pachulia will not end up in a starting role based on the performances of those above them.
Most of all, Robinson has nothing to lose with everything to prove. He signed a one-year deal worth a little more than $4 million. There’s a team option for a second year. This is the definition of a ‘show me’ contract.
Ultimately, the Detroit Pistons signing Glenn Robinson III will pay off in some fashion.