13 Free agents Pistons could target to fill final roster spots

13 Free agents Pistons could target to fill final roster spots

The Detroit Pistons have just 14 players signed right now, so still have an open roster spot, though they have little or no money to spend. Signing a minimum guy would be possible, but may take some further roster moves depending on the salary.

They could look to fill this spot with a minimum veteran for the end of the bench and don’t be surprised if we see some familiar faces.

• Rodney McGruder: If I had to bet, I’d say McGruder will get this spot unless he gets an offer from another team. The veteran has been called the “Pros pro,” has a strong work ethic and sets a good example for the youngsters. He’s also familiar with the Pistons and vice versa. Let’s just hope we don’t see him much next season, as if we do, it means something went wrong.
• Justise Winslow: This would be a full-circle move, as many fans of the Pistons wanted them to draft Winslow over Stanley Johnson. Winslow hasn’t been a whole lot better but did play 29 games for Portland last season. He might be more than a minimum guy but would give Detroit some backup at several positions.
• Lamar Stevens: He was recently waived by the Spurs, and could be a nice pickup for Detroit. Stevens can’t shoot but he’s a tenacious defender who can guard multiple positions and would add some more toughness to the roster. On a minimum deal, he might be worth a shot.
• Markieff Morris: Another familiar face, Morris has been on a lot of teams and his best days are behind him, but if Detroit wanted some more toughness in the locker room, he could be an option.
• James Johnson: The 35-year-old is one of my favorite bench veterans and was actually still pretty effective two seasons ago for the Pelicans. He only played in 18 games last season for Indiana but would be a great locker room guy who can still defend in a pinch and would be a mentor for their young bigs on the defensive end.

If the Detroit Pistons don’t make additional trades, I would love to see them bring in a veteran power forward.