Detroit Pistons GM: All options open in NBA Draft

The Detroit Pistons new general manager, Troy Weaver, spoke publicly for the first time since he was hired in June. He noted things could go a lot of different ways in the upcoming NBA draft.

One of the most fluid NBA Drafts in recent memory is scheduled to be conducted on November 18th. Detroit Pistons general manager Troy Weaver made it clear in a recent press availability that, depending what is on the table, the team is looking at many options.

Currently, Detroit has one first-round draft choice, seventh overall, and none in the second round.

There were various subjects involving the draft that Weaver answered. Here they are, presented with some analysis.

You can listen to the full press conference here, courtesy of the Free Press

LaMelo Ball

The potential No. 1 overall selection has been training in the Detroit area for several months and spoken highly of the city and Pistons organization. Although the possibility of Ball falling to 7 is slight, Weaver does want to have an official visit with the 6-foot-8 lead guard.

"“I am always happy to hear players embrace our organization and city,” said Weaver. “That never does not go unnoticed. I know his trainer is a Detroit native. He is well-versed in the city. That is always a positive when prospects speak highly of the city and organization.”"

What it means: Hey, you never know. Weaver has always said he thinks there are two players, who he would not reveal, that stand above the rest of the prospects. If Ball is one of them, not a bad idea to meet with him. There could also be a deal where Detroit would move up and be in position to take him.

The top 10 draft picks

There is no clear-cut top choice in this year’s draft, or even an obvious second choice. That leaves a lot of uncertainty, particularly since some of the teams with high picks have made no secret they would be open to a trade.

"I think the uncertainty is the guys at the top of draft. (You have) a lot of guys who are young or played overseas. I think from … the top teams have convoluted it even more. The 10 picks could go a lot of ways. There does not seem to be a consensus on who  is No. 1. 2 or No. 3. The top 10 could be a scramble. My thoughts are still the same. The top two and 3 thru 10 you could shuffle them any way you want."

What it means: Basically, who the heck knows? Weaver has his thoughts on who are the best players, but that does not mean other club’s picking ahead of him think the same. Being ready to turn on a dime, depending on how the draft goes, will be key.

Pistons preparedness

Since March 11, Detroit has basically had nothing much to do except get ready for the draft. Maybe even a little too much time.

"I said it was over-scouted because of the time allotted to us. For collective intelligence (we are fine). Missing piece is pre-draft camp but the league did it virtually. The sheer moving of the draft has allowed more time to do more work. … It is shaping up. We have some interviews and workouts we need to get to before the end of business. We feel confident in our work thus far. We will continue to grind it out, but we feel pretty good about the direction we are headed. You have to ask the right questions. I feel pretty good with getting to know the prospects.”"

What it means: Weaver feels positive about the Pistons readiness for the draft. Usually, the Performance Center has a steady stream of potential draftees working out. This time the NBA is only allowing 10 per team. But Weaver believes they can still get a good read on players despite the restrictions.

3-for-1 with Boston

The Boston Celtics hold three first-round draft picks, but none higher than No. 14. They are in win-now mode, so they might prefer getting a higher draft choice, like Detroit’s seventh pick, for a better chance at an immediate impact player.

"We are definitely looking at everything. We are in a situation where we are trying to get the best players, replenish the cupboard. Everything is on the table. Absolutely we would entertain that sort of scenario"

What it means: Weaver would be more than happy to chat with Boston counterpart Danny Ainge. On the surface, it makes sense on both sides. If the players Weaver really like are off the board at No. 7, he might be very amenable to moving down for more picks.