The Detroit Pistons have begun building the basis of what they hope could be the next NBA dynasty led by future superstar Cade Cunningham.
Over the past few seasons under GM Troy Weaver, the Pistons have moved from an aging core trapped in mediocrity, to a young team full of energy and competitive spirit.
This has been done by searching for a specific type of player: the underdogs.
Detroit Pistons: Troy Weaver has a type
Weaver has targeted players who have been passed on, forgotten or overlooked. Players with chips on their shoulders. Players who feel robbed of recognition.
One of his first moves while in charge of the Detroit Pistons was bringing in Jerami Grant, a veteran forward who had never played a role much better than a 3-and-D role on any other team.
He also brought in players like Isaiah Stewart and Saddiq Bey who slipped in the draft and play hardnosed, in your face defense.
Even the race for Rookie of the Year has played into this idea of the underdog for the Pistons as Cade Cunningham was largely forgotten about despite putting up ridiculous numbers following the All-Star break.
Every player the Pistons have signed during this time have also had incredible work ethics. Videos and conversations pop up all summer of Pistons players spending all day every day in the gym in the off season.
Killian Hayes and Isaiah Stewart in particular have helped lead the way in this culture of working for everything.
It is incredibly unlikely that the team moves away from this pattern of looking for underrated, under-appreciated players who work hard.
This leads to some clear candidates for who Weaver may look to add with the numerous draft picks held by the Pistons as well as the cap space they can throw around during free agency.