Detroit Pistons: How the veterans will lead the young Pistons

Training camp is here and the Detroit Pistons  are poised to continue their restoration. Troy Weaver has officially revamped the roster, putting his stamp on it with every player he signed. The longest tenured Piston is now Killian Hayes, Weaver’s first round pick from his inaugural season as General Manager in 2020.

Many of the young players came back early in September for voluntary work outs. The coaching staff had one-on-one drills with players at the practice facility. This gave head coach Dwane Casey the opportunity to see their growth, as well as getting a jump start on things to improve. Now with veterans back into the mix it’s time to build continuity and chemistry.

Detroit Pistons: Veterans will be key to the restoration

Jerami Grant will lead the way after his break out season last year. His play warranted a selection to Team USA and a coveted roster spot to represent his country during the Olympics. The gold medalist had a career high in points and assists last season with 22.3 points and 2.8 assists respectively. He also finished second in Most Improved Player voting. This year he needs to continue his growth and understanding of the game. The experience with USA basketball and playing in that environment will have him ready to take the next step.

Jerami is known for his team first mentality and unselfish play. In his first season in Detroit he took on a much larger role and answered the critics. However when a new role is given there’s always learning curves, and adjustments to be made. He’ll look to improve as a passer and with the added shooting to the roster the numbers should show it. Don’t be surprised to see him more balanced attacking defenses and kicking out to shooters when they collapse. As he gains more experience against the defensive schemes he’ll make the right reads. His high IQ and feel for the game is why I think he’ll be a better playmaker this year.

This is all part of the process when you become a viable first option scorer in today’s league. Understanding when to get yours and when to defer to teammates is essential. It also creates the proper spacing needed to be more efficient individually. It’s something he’s still learning in his new found role. With the high usage rate expected for Grant a cerebral game along with his natural talents could be the deciding factor in win and losses.

Kelly Olynyk is a traditional stretch big who shot 39 percent from three on over 4.5 attempts per game. He has a unique blend of skills with his awareness and IQ. He could space the floor or orchestrate the offense providing another ball handler. This will help his young guards with their maturation process taking pressure off them at times. He’s not known for being the best defensively but he can clog the paint using his big frame. He’s also willing to sacrifice his body on the defensive end by taking charges and playing physical. He’s probably the most recognized of the free agents but may not make the biggest splash.

Hamidou Diallo could very well take minutes from other backcourt reserves. He’s a athletic wing who re-signed as a restricted free agent this offseason. After a mid season trade last year to acquire him. He had some exciting plays catching lobs, showcasing his athleticism.

Although his highlight dunks may wow crowds his shooting touch is needed and valued in the Motor City. During his short stint with the  Detroit Pistons last season he shot 39 percent from three. That’s much better than his career average of around 29 percent. It’s not about being a high volume shooter for him, he has the ability to get to the basket. Keeping the defense honest by making them respect your jumper will open up the floor. Not just for himself but his teammates will flourish if he can continue last year’s success. The spacing it’ll create along with his defensive prowess will have him gaining more minutes as the season continues.

Corey Joseph should bring value to this organization. He was waived and re-signed by the franchise. This gave the Detroit Pistons additional cap flexibility they used to fill the roster out. As a solid veteran he can play both guard positions. Coach Casey could utilize his skill set in a multitude of ways. If one of the young guards is struggling he can fill in with short notice. He has the stay ready mentality it takes to go from low minutes to possibly starting if asked.

The beginning of the season will have Hayes and Cade in the backcourt. If a lineup change is needed expect Joseph’s minutes to increase dramatically. He’s a no nonsense vet that can start when needed or cheer from the bench without the controversy. Let’s hope the young guards can learn and develop while winning games. Keeping his minutes down wouldn’t be a bad thing. It would strongly suggest that Killian and the other young guards are providing quality play for the organization.

The Detroit Pistons are a young team but they will be led by their veterans, especially early on.