The Detroit Pistons hope to pull even tonight in game two of their first-round series against the Knicks.
It’s likely they’ll be doing it shorthanded, as Isaiah Stewart is questionable, and even if he does play (unlikely), he won’t be at 100 percent.
Regardless of what happens in this series, this season will be viewed as a success for the Pistons, who outplayed expectations and took the next step as a young team ahead of anyone’s schedule.
That may change the way Trajan Langdon approaches the offseason, as he doesn’t have to go hunting for stars, but can instead look for impact role players that fit the Pistons style and culture.
One thing is certain, the Pistons need more size and a long-term answer at power forward, as Tobias Harris will enter next season on an expiring contract.
There is one free agent who fits the mold, but his price tag may be going up after a big game one in the playoffs.
Detroit Pistons free agency: Naz Reid
I’ve written about Naz Reid as a possibility several times this season, as he is a nice fit on paper as a big power forward who can play some at center and spread the floor with his shooting.
This archetype becomes even more valuable in the playoffs as we’ve seen time and time again. One dimensional bigs get played off the floor while big men who are versatile defensively become more important.
This was the case in game one of the Pistons’ series, as Duren wasn’t great, got into foul trouble and Detroit took off with the more versatile defender (Isaiah Stewart) on the floor.
Reid got off to a great start in the Timberwolves’ game one route of the Lakers, playing 31 minutes off the bench and scoring 23 points on 6-of-9 shooting from long range, adding five rebounds, two assists and two blocks.
The Pistons certainly could have used those numbers (and his defense) in game one when they had to pull Stewart, who was clearly struggling with his knee. Having another versatile big would give the Pistons more options, especially against teams with a stretch five, something Detroit has struggled against all season.
We are going to hear a ton of star names in trade rumors this summer, but the most important targets for the Pistons will be impact role players who can patch their biggest holes.
They need shooting, size and a long-term replacement for Tobias Harris and Naz Reid could potentially provide all three, which is why I expect Trajan Langdon to give Reid a long look this summer as a possible addition.