6 Free agents the Detroit Pistons should avoid at all costs

Gordon Hayward

In his prime, Hayward was exactly the type of player the Pistons currently need, a versatile forward who can shoot, make plays and is at least a smart team defender.

But he's no longer in his prime. Hayward has shot over 41 percent from long range this season, largely due to his low-volume hot shooting since joining OKC. But he's playing minimal minutes and is not a guy who can be counted on to stay healthy.

Hayward has only played 49 games this season and has only topped 50 games once in the last five years when he played 52 games in the 2019-20 season.

Considering how badly the Pistons have been decimated by injuries the last few years, they can't take on another injury-prone player, even if he is a theoretical fit.

My guess is that Hayward will take a minimum deal next season to join a contender to play a role off the bench. The 26-year-old Hayward would have been great for Detroit, but they should stay far away from the 34-year-old version.