The 2022 draft was an unexpected, but exciting one for Detroit fans. Troy Weaver seemed to surprise everyone when he traded back into the first round to select elite young big man Jalen Duren. Coming away from the draft with Jaden Ivey and Jalen Duren added to the Detroit Pistons’ starting rotation was enough to give Pistons’ fans hope.
Weaver had one more trade in mind, though, moving Jerami Grant for a second round pick, and future draft capital. With that second round pick, Weaver selected Gabriele Procida of Fortitudo Bologna. Since Gabriele was used as a draft and stash, his development has fallen somewhat under the radar compared to that of Ivey and Duren. How has he fared overseas? When will Detroit call on him to join them in the Motor City?
Detroit Pistons: Update on 2022 second round draft pick Gabriele Procida
For anyone not aware, Procida is a 6-foot-7 wing from Italy who made his professional debut at the age of 17 as a member of Pallacanestro Cantu in the Lega Basket Serie A. During his time with Fortitudo Bologna, Procida initially declared for the 2021 NBA draft, before withdrawing and returning to Italy. He would enter the 2022 draft and was selected by Weaver and the Detroit Pistons at 36. Now 21, Procida is playing in the Euroleague for Alba Berlin.
This past season, Gabriele Procida played in 27 games, starting in just four of them. His season ended averaging 5.7 points, 1.8 rebounds, .5 assists and .9 turnovers per game. This is a slight downturn from the previous season that drew the Pistons to him. In 2021, his averages were closer to 7 points, 39 percent from three, three rebounds, and .6 assists per game. While these numbers prior to him being drafted were not electric, Detroit clearly saw something they loved. The potential was/is there. Unfortunately, after a hot start to his time with Alba Berlin, he is now shooting 60 percent from 2-point range but a ghastly 24 percent from deep. His defense is there but It’s apparent his shooting must improve before he would be able to contribute in the NBA.
Similar to that of our other Piston starters, Procida is still extremely young and an unfinished product. Back in August, he signed a three year deal with Alba Berlin and I would expect him to finish out that contract before he is recalled. He still has plenty to develop before being asked to compete at the NBA level. That’s not to say he hasn’t shown potential, however. Procida is often under control and has shown, in spurts, spot up shooting abilities, something Detroit desperately needs in their core of young talent. If nothing else, we may get to see him in the States for the Summer League games.