Does Carmelo Anthony fit with the Detroit Pistons?

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DETROIT, MI – JANUARY 27: Carmelo Anthony #7 of the Oklahoma City Thunder dunks against the Detroit Pistons on January 27, 2018 at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Chris Schwegler/NBAE via Getty Images) /

Does Carmelo Anthony fit financially?

Detroit is as cap-strapped as it gets without going into the luxury tax. Four NBA teams are over the luxury tax already, and the Pistons are next, sitting $223,000 under.

It’s likely that Anthony would be signed to a veteran minimum contract, which would send the Pistons into the luxury threshold. That is, if a roster spot is even available.

The Pistons have 14 guaranteed contracts signed for the 2019-20 season. Christian Wood, who was claimed off free agency waivers, will have a contract over $800,000 guaranteed if he’s on the roster for the first regular season game.

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Looking at the depth chart, Detroit’s biggest need appears to be a backup center, which Wood fits the bill. Adding Anthony would provide another scoring threat off the bench, however, and more depth at wing.

Other options

If the Pistons want to add another wing, it would make sense to go after an available free agent who played all of last season. Vince Carter would bring a great presence to the locker room. Thabo Sefolosha is another 3-and-D guy that could help the Pistons second unit out defensively.

Which of the three makes the most sense, if any?

The verdict

There would have to be an extensive interview and workout to determine if Anthony is a match in Detroit. He would bring an exciting scorer, which comes with inconsistency, that would have to be a star in his role. It would also lead to sacrificing defensively and potentially exploring the trade market for a backup center, since Wood wouldn’t be on the roster if Anthony was brought into camp and selected.

In terms of need, Anthony doesn’t fit with what the Pistons have right now. His game is strong enough that Dwane Casey could find a way to accommodate another scorer. Perhaps adding Jackson to Anthony’s rotation to give another spot-up shooter would help, which would change several lineups.

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Fortunately for Piston Powered, we aren’t in charge of the decision. We’re just here to assist the conversation around it.

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