Where does Hamidou Diallo fit in Pistons restoration process?

Long-term outlook of Hamidou Diallo’s role with Detroit Pistons

As much as I have praised Diallo’s production and ability here, I am still of the mindset that Diallo isn’t the answer as a long-term starter going forward in this restoration process. However, I believe his role should be as close to a starter as can be, without actually starting.

The Pistons could utilize his talents and skillset in a variety of ways.

If Detroit treats him as somewhat of a chess piece, they can maximize his value (more on that in a second). Hopefully, between the next two seasons, the Pistons will have found their answer at the other guard spot next to Cade Cunningham, whether or not that is Killian Hayes. Additionally, it seems quite likely that the Pistons will search for another mainstay in the long-term frontcourt.

From what we’ve seen, it seems like Saddiq Bey is the most likely to hold onto his starting spot from the 2020 draft class, and right now, as long as the Pistons maximize their assets, it seems like changes in the starting lineup are imminent.

Diallo a valuable chess piece for Detroit Pistons?

To expand on Hamidou’s potential role as a ‘chess piece’, here is what I mean.

The Pistons can use him as the first guy off the bench, who still gets upwards of 20 minutes a game. In this role, he would be able to sub in for any position 2 thru 4, given his defensive switchability and rebounding prowess. He would also be available for spot starts, whether because he would be able to create a favorable matchup or due to injury.

This role would provide the Pistons with a lot of roster flexibility. I think his best position is out on the wing. With the likes of Saben Lee, Frank Jackson, and (maybe) Killian Hayes as options for the bench backcourt, Diallo will potentially be in that second-unit wing rotation anyways.

Teams like Phoenix, Utah, and Milwaukee are recent examples of what high-level bench production can do for a playoff team. If Hamidou Diallo can become the next high-profile bench player in the NBA, that could do wonders for the Pistons when they eventually enter their playoff contention window.