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Detroit Pistons GM: All options open in NBA Draft

By Stuart London

AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND - NOVEMBER 30: LaMelo Ball of the Hawks (Photo by Anthony Au-Yeung/Getty Images)
AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND - NOVEMBER 30: LaMelo Ball of the Hawks (Photo by Anthony Au-Yeung/Getty Images) /
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Detroit Pistons
NBA Draft prospect Killian Hayes could be a Detroit Pistons target. (Photo by TF-Images/Getty Images) /

New Detroit Pistons general manager Troy Weaver gave some insight into his, and the team’s thinking, on the November 18th NBA Draft in a recent press briefing.

Second-round draft choices

The Pistons gave up their own second-round draft selection as part of a five-year old trade with Phoenix. With only eight players currently under contract for a 15-man roster, Weaver would like to get some second-rounders.

"Absolutely. We are definitely interested in picking up seconds in this draft,” said Weaver. … Every draft has 10 good players historically. They may not go in the top 10, but there are always 10 good players. Our job is to find them.”"

What it means: After Ainge, Weaver’s next phone call might be to 76ers president Daryl Morey. The Sixers have four second-rounders and not enough roster space for all of them. They also have sold second-rounders in the past, so Detroit owner Tom Goers’ checkbook might get used.

2020 NBA Draft: Detroit Pistons should open their wallet. light. Related Story

Hayes & Hampton

Weaver was asked his opinion on two guards linked to the Pistons in some mock drafts who played overseas this past year: R.J. Hampton and Killian Hayes.

"“Both guys (Hampton, Hayes) are young guards, tremendous upside. Both very intriguing. They will go anywhere from 4 to 14. Hampton is an athletic player, you are betting on his upside. Hayes is more of a facilitator. Both intriguing young prospects.”"

What it means: Weaver was not going to disclose where they rank on the Pistons draft board. However, his evaluation of Hayes and Hampton as players seems quite honest.

Are we having fun yet?

Having to deal with a historically long off-season could wear on an NBA executive. How much film of Isaac Okoro can you watch? But Weaver says he is always energized for the draft.

"“I love the draft. I love it every year. I always looked at the draft (as being the glass) half full. You may not have a Zion Williamson or a Ja (Morant) but there are guys we really like. We really like the draft; chance to get young guys into your culture. I am not against moving up. There are several players we like and looking forward to the 18th.”"

Next. Lucky 7s? A history of the Detroit Pistons with the 7th pick. dark

What it means: Weaver is as excited about what will occur in the draft as fans. He just has more say in what happens than anyone else.