The Detroit Pistons dumped Mason Plumlee in a shocking 2021 trade after one year as their starting center, and the big man's production has slowly dropped off. The 35-year-old is on a one-year deal with the Hornets, and Charlotte desperately needs help at the five. It looks like the perfect opportunity, but Plumlee has been disastrous in the preseason, and the 13-year NBA veteran is unlikely to bounce back.
Through three preseason games, the 6’10 big man averaged 1.3 points and 3.3 rebounds in 8.3 minutes per game. He missed the early part of camp with an excused absence, but Charlotte has been outscored by 19 points in his just under 25 minutes on the floor. Plumlee has just one assist and zero blocks. He looks to have slipped to the third-string center behind rookie Ryan Kalkbrenner and Moussa Diabate.
Since leaving Detroit, his minutes have declined as he bounced around the NBA. Plumlee played 17.6 per game last season as primarily a backup center for the Suns. His production dropped off, but fans still saw strong rebounding and playmaking. It appears they may not even get that Plumlee this season.
Mason Plumlee is declining rapidly with zero signs of recovery
The Pistons won just 20 games in the 2020-21 season, where Plumlee started 56 contests. They were in the middle of a rebuild, but fans quickly took a shine to the 6’10 big man. His rebounding, playmaking, and defense always made him an intriguing option in the right role. Detroit got arguably the best season of Plumlee’s career, but they were quick to move in search of a long-term answer at the position.
Plumdog has played for the Hornets, Clippers, and Suns since leaving the Motor City. He is back for a second stint in Charlotte this season, where he will be a veteran mentor to the young squad. The 35-year-old is on a minimum contract and clearly declining.
Expect him to be used sparingly despite no trusted options in front of him. The Hornets want to keep him healthy and hope his biggest impacts come as a locker room leader and voice that helps their young talent grow.
The Detroit Pistons snapped a five-year playoff drought in 2025 and want to build on that success. Cade Cunningham is an unquestioned superstar, and Jalen Duren has taken over as the starting center. The Pistons need the 2022 lottery pick to become their defensive anchor if they want to jump into title contention. It is a massive ask, but Duren has the talent.
Pistons fans hope Mason Plumlee makes an impact for the Hornets this season. It has been a rough preseason, and nobody should expect a bounce-back from the 35-year-old big man. Sadly, his NBA career is winding down. All fans can do is remember the good times.