The Pistons may feel tempted to add another exciting young guard if Scoot Henderson becomes available, but he doesn’t truly make sense for Detroit. Henderson hasn’t proven himself to be a winning player yet and the Pistons have no time to waste on him. He might fit the theoretical profile of an off-ball guard next to Cade Cunningham, but the Pistons need someone more proven.
The Pistons can’t afford a flyer on Scoot
In many ways, Henderson looks good on paper for the role Jaden Ivey was once meant to fill. He was billed as an extremely explosive slasher coming into the league, which helped him get drafted third overall. His outside shooting has also progressed in recent seasons, including an impressive stretch shooting 40% from deep in the final two months of last season.
But the day-to-day reality of Henderson’s time in the NBA isn’t as rosy. He’s struggled to score efficiently (career 40% shooting on all field goals) and his potential hasn’t materialized yet.
In the same 2023 Draft as Henderson, the Pistons ended up with Ausar Thompson. Thompson obviously has his own questions on the offensive end, but his defensive brilliance at least establishes him as a core piece in Detroit. By contrast, Henderson isn’t even good enough at his supposed strengths to warrant a Pistons roster spot.
Detroit should search elsewhere for their guard solution
Although the national media might not realize it, the Pistons have very high playoff ambitions this season. They’re coming off a year where they already finished as the top seed in the East and came within a game of the conference finals. Within those ambitions there will be no room to take on a rehabilitation project like Henderson.
Even if the Pistons are ok with taking a step back to re-assess and continue development, they’ll prioritize the young players they already have. Thompson will be at the top of that list as the Pistons try to unlock another level offensively for him. But he’s not the only one who will get development reps this season; Detroit also needs to see the offensive potential of players like Ron Holland II and Ebuka Okorie.
If the Pistons want an upgrade at shooting guard to complement Cade, they’re in a position to seek out an established star. Detroit’s timeline is far accelerated compared to Henderson’s trajectory. He might have some residual pedigree from being drafted so high, but the Pistons need an upgrade that can help them win now.
Offseason rumors have already proven that the Pistons are looking towards veteran backcourt options too. Kyrie Irving is a name we’ve seen pop up often, and for good reason. Players of his ilk and stature are the best options for getting Cade the help he needs when he needs it.
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