Detroit Pistons: Player comparisons for all Pistons’ draft picks

2nd (57th overall, acquired in trade with Charlotte): Balsa Koprivica – Ivica Zubac

The selections of Luka Garza and Balsa Koprivica at the end of the second round makes sense for a team that traded away their most reliable center in Mason Plumlee. General manager Troy Weaver will count on at least one of the two, to prove they can reach the level to play a back-up center role in the team’s future.

While Koprivica is anything but flashy and did not shoot in college, he uses his 7-foot-1 size to fight for rebounds and points in the paint. For him to succeed in the league, he should do his best Ivica Zubac impersonation.

As a classic, “I know what I’m here to do” big man,  Zubac thrives rebounding and cleaning up messes around the rim, first for the Lakers and now the Clippers.

Koprivica only averaged 9.4 points a game for the Seminoles, but the nearly 60 FG% shooting shows what kind of player he is. Last year for the Clippers, Zubac average 9.0 points on 65% shooting. Both players move well for their size, and have proven to fit in nicely with teams that have solid playmakers.

Even with limited shooting ability, don’t be surprised if Koprivica ends up the better option of the two rookie bigs.