2023 NBA Mock Draft: Pistons, Pacers, Bulls and Heat make trades

Chris Duarte #3 of the Indiana Pacers attempts a shot while being guarded by Jaden Ivey #23 of the Detroit Pistons (Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images)
Chris Duarte #3 of the Indiana Pacers attempts a shot while being guarded by Jaden Ivey #23 of the Detroit Pistons (Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images)
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Detroit Pistons, Pistons draft, Jarace Walker
Houston Cougars forward Jarace Walker Credit: Vasha Hunt-USA TODAY Sports

2023 NBA Mock Draft: Pistons trade back to 7th

The Orlando Magic get one of the top defensive prospects in the draft in Ausar Thompson, who would fit perfectly with their young core. The Magic have their scorers in place, so adding a player who can be effective without the ball would be a smart move.

This could be the ideal situation for the Detroit Pistons, as Jarace Walker might be the guy they want anyway. He’s a big, tough defender with a high basketball IQ, who will be a great connector on offense who can also knock down 3-point shots.

He’s the type of player Monty Williams would love, as he is smart, plays hard on defense and keeps the ball moving, which is the foundation of Williams’ offense.

The Wizards are another team that could make a move here depending on how they see their future. They could lose both Kristaps Porzingis and Kyle Kuzma, in which case, adding a young player here makes sense. Black’s defense and ability to handle some of the playmaking would help Bradley Beal.