The Detroit Pistons inked forward Trey Lyles to a 2 year/$5 million deal to bring his services to the Motor City.
It was hardly a blockbuster deal, as Lyles is not going to be the guy to push the Pistons into playoff contention, but I do think it’s an addition worth exploring.
Lyles’ signing meant the end of the Tyler Cook era in Detroit, which angered some fans who liked Cook’s athleticism and ceiling as a guy who was still only 23-years-old and hasn’t been given much chance so far in the NBA.
But in reality this was an upgrade for a few reasons, and while this move wasn’t a big one, it is symbolic of how the Pistons are trying to build depth for their roster.
Detroit Pistons: Troy Weaver is building his roster around the strengths and weaknesses
The Detroit Pistons were 10th in points allowed last season and 26th in offense. We saw so many games where the Pistons held their opponent to a respectable total only to score 97 points themselves and lose anyway.
It’s clear where the Detroit Pistons needed help and so far this offseason has been dedicated to bringing more offense to Detroit.
The first step was drafting Cade Cunningham, who has superstar potential and should elevate his teammates, especially Saddiq Bey.
The Pistons also signed stretch-four Kelly Olynyk, who was a great addition and should help Cunningham and Killian Hayes develop.
The signing of Trey Lyles was not nearly as important, but it was a also a move to bolster the offense and depth.