An optimistic vision for the future of the Detroit Pistons

Detroit Pistons in 2022 free agency

The Pistons are going to have an advantage next offseason because they will be one of four teams with cap space, so they should be able to land an impact free agent.

There are two restricted free agents who did not sign extensions with their current teams who would look great on the Detroit Pistons.

The first is Miles Bridges, who is having a breakout year for the Hornets, averaging 19.8 points and  7.3 rebounds. He is also from Flint and fits the age timeline of the Pistons’ young core.

The other guy is Deandre Ayton, center for the Suns, who is averaging 16.9 points and 11.3 rebounds, can protect the rim and is learning the pick and roll from one of the greatest point guards of all time.

Of the two, I would prefer Ayton, as I think Bridges offers too many redundant skills and isn’t a great shooter. The last thing the Pistons need is another guy who can’t shoot, and Ayton would finally give the Pistons a pick and roll threat and a guy who can catch a lob.

Ayton has already shown he can be the center of a Finals team, so he also has experience that the Pistons need.

After him, the Detroit Pistons clearly need shooting, and there are a number of free agents who potentially fit.

Of them, I like Donte DiVincenzo, a guy who can shoot the 3-ball, but also has good size and can rebound and play defense.

If the Pistons could grab another bouncy big with their free agent money, that would be good too, but I’d be ecstatic with Ayton and a shooter if that is what happens.