Detroit Pistons: Troy Weaver has an eye for talent
With Bey, Stewart and Lee all playing big roles this season, Troy Weaver’s eye for talent is definitely on the rise.
He also took a chance on Smith Jr. that has appeared to pay off, as did the flyers on Jerami Grant, Mason Plumlee, Delon Wright, Josh Jackson and Wayne Ellington.
The Pistons are not winning by design but Weaver has shown an impressive eye for players who are undervalued, which will be important as the Detroit Pistons try to rebuild without the benefit of landing big-named free agents.
Detroit Pistons: Saben Lee could be part of the future
Coming into the season, no no thought 2nd-round pick Saben Lee would see this much action, or any at all, but injuries have forced him into duty and he’s made the most of it.
Lee has shown plus-athleticism, the ability to set up teammates and a better than advertised jumpshot.
He is now averaging 7.1 points and 2.3 assists on 54 percent shooting overall and 66 percent from behind the 3-point line, albeit on a low volume of attempts.
Over his last seven games he’s been even better, averaging 12.5 points and 3.8 assists and looks like a guy who will have a solid chance to make the team next year as a backup.
Detroit Pistons: Wayne Ellington’s chances of being traded
After a string of really poor shooting performances that threatened to submarine whatever trade value he had, Ellington has put together two strong games making 12 from behind the arc and showing contending teams that he might be able to help them in the 2nd-half.
It’s still unlikely that the Pistons get a big haul for Ellington, but he has made it easier to get something in return for a veteran who was meant to be roster filler and nothing more.
Detroit Pistons: Mason Plumlee has been better than advertised
Mason Plumlee is another retread who has found second-life with the Pistons. He has already recorded two triple-doubles this season and is nearly averaging a double-double while piling up the assists.
Plumlee is third overall in assists for centers and has been a steady presence for this young Detroit Pistons’ team. Plumlee now looks like one of the value signings of the offseason and there are likely a few teams that wish they had gotten him.
Now for the players going in the other direction.