Daniss Jenkins has been one of the best surprises of the season for the Detroit Pistons and it’s time they reward him with a full contract.
Jenkins is currently on a two-way deal, but after appearing in 25 games so far, six as a starter, Jenkins has proven himself to be worthy of a full-time deal.
He’s given the Pistons a boost several times this season when injuries forced him into big minutes, and has shown that he can at least handle some backup point guard minutes.
Insider Jake Fischer speculated recently that the Pistons wouldn’t make a big trade but would eventually move Jenkins to a full-time deal. This isn’t just about rewarding Daniss, as the Pistons need protection against further injuries and roster shuffling at the deadline.
Detroit Pistons: Daniss Jenkins may have a key role in the future
Although the Pistons are signaling that they won’t make a big trade at the deadline, things can change quickly and we are still in December. There is more than a month before the deadline and plenty of things can happen.
The Pistons have struggled all season to find a secondary ball handler and another injury to a guard will make that situation even worse, so Jenkins is a form of insurance.
There is also a small chance that the Pistons will move Jaden Ivey at the deadline, which could potentially bump Jenkins up in the rotation. I don’t think anyone would argue that Jenkins is a better player than Ivey, but when you factor in future salary, the debate isn’t as clear.
Ivey could command a big raise while Jenkins will be on a minimum deal, so if you are balancing dollars and production, he’s the better value. That doesn’t mean he’s better but having a guy like Jenkins would allow the Pistons to invest cap space elsewhere.
There’s also a possibility Jenkins himself will become trade bait, as there are several teams in the market for a point guard. He’s not likely to be a first option for anyone but Jenkins could provide depth as well, so it wouldn’t be shocking if teams called on him once he has a full time deal.
The Pistons don’t have to make a decision immediately but the clock is ticking, as Jenkins can only play 50 games for the Pistons before they have to sign him or let him walk.
This seems like one of the easier decisions Trajan Langdon has to make, as Jenkins is providing value for money and making an impact on a minimum deal.