Detroit Pistons: Three players to avoid in the NBA Draft

Patrick Williams

This is where things get controversial. In Patrick Williams’ case, it’s not so much that Detroit would be making a mistake by drafting him, but they may be able to do better. For instance, if Killian Hayes were still on the board and the opted to take Williams instead, that’d frustrate a good majority of the fan base.

Williams has shot up draft boards these last few weeks. His size, athleticism, defensive ability and sheer quickness have turned him into a highly coveted asset. Given the previous two players Detroit should hope to avoid, the defense here is a welcome sight.

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He’s effective with his ability to run shooters off the line and force them inside, as well as his ability to force tough close outs on jumpers. Williams is pesky, and he’s gritty. The quintessential embodiment of a Detroit Piston.

However despite the potential he shows on the defensive end, his desire to become an effective scorer has been brought into question. There’s nothing particularly wrong with being a one-way player if you prioritize defense, but in Detroit’s case, this isn’t what they currently need the most.

To be fair, the Pistons need whatever they can currently get and being picky about it won’t help

much. But Williams’ ceiling is that of a “glue guy”, and despite its tremendous importance, it isn’t what Detroit should be looking for.

A high effort defensive anchor who’s scoring output is often held in question is reminiscent of Draymond Green. While Green is unquestionably valuable and played a key role in Golden State’s three championships, the Pistons need someone that could transcend their franchise.

The elephant in the room on this issue is that you’ll be hard pressed to find many players in this class who possess the necessary skillset to preform said transcendence. This is exactly why Williams doesn’t fall under the same umbrella as other potential candidates, but he could still be avoided if a more essential player is available.

He could prove to be valuable on a team near contention, but Detroit isn’t that.