Detroit Pistons: NBA Free Agents- Nerlens Noel
After jettisoning Mason Plumlee, the Pistons are suddenly light at center with only Isaiah Stewart and Jahlil Okafor to go along with two second-round picks who might not even make the roster.
They could definitely use a veteran down low, especially one who can catch lobs and protect the rim.
Nerlens Noel is coming off one of his best seasons as a professional and was a big part of helping the Knicks reach the playoffs last season.
He’s a hard-nosed defender who is one of the better shot blockers in the NBA, averaging 2.2 last season in only 24 minutes per game.
He’s never been a guy who plays huge minutes, as he is almost always in foul trouble, but that’s ok, as the Pistons don’t really want a guy who is going to take minutes from Beef Stew.
Noel is a nice fit but it all comes down to cost. He was a great value contact last season and will probably be looking for a raise, but if the Pistons can get him on a low-cost deal he’d fit right in with the culture and team they are building.
Verdict: Pursue