Detroit Pistons shouldn’t shy away from James Wiseman

Drafting big men hasn’t always worked out for the Detroit Pistons, but James Wiseman is the type of prospect whom the organization could build around.

The Detroit Pistons will enter the 2020 NBA offseason with the potential to be investing upwards of $50 million per season in their starting interior. Blake Griffin is due to make $36,595,996 in 2020-21, and Christian Wood is a free agent garnering significant interest from around the NBA.

Before the Pistons go all-in on that admittedly promising duo, they should do their homework on a prospect who could lead the franchise for years to come: James Wiseman.

Drafting big men is something of a polarizing subject for the Pistons, as it hasn’t exactly bred rewarding results. In recent years, Andre Drummond was traded before the conclusion of his second contract, Greg Monroe refused to re-sign long-term, and Henry Ellenson was out by the end of his rookie deal.

As such, investing in yet another big man may seem like a tired practice for a fanbase that’s seen the organization win championships with centers who weren’t even first-round draft picks.

As such, the inclination may be to target one of the point guards who project to be selected in lottery this coming October. That list includes LaMelo Ball, Tyrese Haliburton, RJ Hampton, and Killian Hayes, all of whom possess skills that the Pistons conceivably need.

Wiseman is a different type of prospect, however, as a center who was projected by most to be the No. 1 overall selection before a season of off-court confusion derailed his momentum.

If the Detroit Pistons are truly invested in restoring the greatness of the franchise, Wiseman at least deserves serious consideration.