How hiring Monty Williams could affect the Pistons’ draft

The Detroit Pistons made a splash last night by inking coach Monty Williams to the largest coaching deal in NBA history.

It was a nice bit of news for a fanbase that needed something positive after the team dropped to the 5th spot in the 2023 NBA Draft.

Who the Pistons will choose with that 5th pick is anyone’s guess, but the field may have changed slightly now that Monty Williams is on board.

Currently the oddsmakers have Detroit drafting Cam Whitmore with the 5th pick, but there are several forwards in the running, including Jarace Walker, the Thompson Twins and Taylor Hendricks.

But those odds may shift again with the Williams hire, as there are some prospects that fit his style more than others.

How hiring Monty Williams could affect the Pistons’ draft

When thinking about Monty Williams’ offense and defense two things stand out. On offense, it’s that he stresses ball movement and quick decisions.

And you won’t play for Coach Williams if you don’t play defense, as it was his focus with the Suns, who he had in the top-10 of defensive efficiency every season he was there except his first, when they were 16th.

A guy like Jarace Walker could be a perfect fit, as he is active and versatile defensively and has a high basketball IQ on offense. He is known as a connector who keeps the ball moving, something Williams would undoubtedly like along with his motor and defense.

Cam Whitmore may end up being a good defender, but he’s not as polished at that end as Walker, the Thompsons or Hendricks. Whitmore is also not a great passer, as he had more turnovers than assists in his one year of college and has a tendency to dribble too much on his way to the rim.

He’s not a clear fit (right now, he’s only 18-years-old) in Williams’ point-five offense that asks players to make quick decisions with the ball.

The draft is less than a month away and the Pistons surely had their big board somewhat established before hiring Williams, but you don’t hire a guy of his stature just to sideline him during the important decisions. Coach will have a say, and may lean towards players that fit his particular offensive and defensive philosophies.