Detroit Pistons 2021 Early Draft Profile: Scottie Barnes

Does Scottie Barnes fit with the Detroit Pistons?

As this year’s season continues, it has become very evident that the Detroit Pistons are looking to the future. For the first time since 2003, the Pistons are very likely to have their first top-five pick in the NBA draft.

The guard position seems to be fully covered, with Killian Hayes hopefully growing as a player as he matures into a point guard. Saben Lee’s recent emergence in the absence of the injured Hayes has also given the Pistons more confidence in the guard position.

Fan-favorite Isaiah Stewart has been great and is full of energy on both ends of the court. While a center like Mobley can help improve that position, the Pistons may not get a chance to grab Mobley if they fall out of the top two. Regardless, Stewart will almost definitely be a part of the Pistons’ future going forward.

Jerami Grant and Saddiq Bey have both been incredibly reliable this year, so they will both definitely be around for a long time. However, general manager Troy Weaver loves players with length and who can both play and defend multiple positions.

I think Scottie Barnes fits in perfectly with what Weaver looks for in a basketball player. On top of that, adding another player with high-level playmaking proficiency can unlock another level in head coach Dwane Casey’s offense. His shooting woes are most definitely an area for concern, but his playmaking ability can set him up to be a player like Golden State Warrior, and Michigan native, Draymond Green.

Barnes is not as highly touted of a prospect as either Cunningham, Mobley, or some of the other high-lottery picks. But in a situation that the Pistons miss out on some of the top prospects, Barnes is still a fantastic pick that can help elevate the whole Pistons team moving forward.