The Future
Russell brings a skill set to the table that would benefit the Pistons during the “Blake Window” as well as beyond the expiration of Griffin’s contract.
Russell, 23, is a playmaker that worked well surrounded by younger players in Brooklyn.
As the Pistons prepare for the likely departure of Jackson next summer, bringing in a player of Russell’s youth and skill would be the perfect transition from the old guard to the new.
The Pistons are getting younger while retaining Griffin as the veteran and anchor of the team even before any trade to send Drummond out would happen.
Luke Kennard (23), Bruce Brown (22), Khyri Thomas (23), and 2019 first-round pick Sekou Doumbouya (18) highlight the young core in Detroit.
Russell would fit right in while also bringing the experience and lottery-pick caliber talent that made him an All-Star in 2019.
The Ohio State product averaged 21 points, seven assists, and four rebounds per game for the Nets last season.
He struggled in the playoffs leading the young core in Brooklyn, but adding his experience to that of a healthy Griffin could be the difference between consistent playoff runs (and wins) and the grind of 8th seeds and first-round exits.