REPORT: Cory Joseph Picks Up $5.1 Million Player Option
In a move that comes to the surprise of nobody, Pistons point guard Cory Joseph has reportedly picked up his $5.1 million player option according to Chris Haynes of Yahoo Sports. Joseph started 39 games for Detroit last season, averaging eight points per game.
The 30-year-old Joseph was expected to pick up that option, as he would likely not command that sort of yearly salary figure on the open market. The advantage for the Pistons in this instance is that Troy Weaver can include that $5.1 million for trade purposes. Detroit has been linked to players such as John Collins and Deandre Ayton, which would require sign-and-trades. Having expiring salaries like Cory Joseph on the books helps to facilitate such moves.
Joseph had a down season last year in the Motor City, but still holds value as a veteran bench guard that can be turned to in times of need. This past season, with a very young backcourt of Cade Cunningham, Killian Hayes, and Saben Lee, Joseph came in for spot starts. The injury-ravaged Pistons needed it at times. Now, with plenty of cap space and a desire to make a splash, Joseph and his $5.1 million salary could come in handy once again.
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