2017-2018 Season Preview: Langston Galloway
Can Langston Galloway help fill the Pistons hole at shooting guard? Image: Kevin Sousa-USA TODAY Sports One of the biggest factors that came into play this offseason when it came to roster moves was adding three-point shooting. The Detroit Pistons were 28th in the league last year in three-point shooting percentage, a putrid ranking. Shooting and floor spacing is a staple of Stan Van Gundy's offense, and last year Detroit sorely lacked adequate shooting. Van Gundy quickly worked to address that issue, as he drafted Luke Kennard with the 12th pick in the 2017 NBA Draft. But Kennard alone would not fix the problem. Detroit's first move of free agency was the signing of 6'3" combo-guard Langston Galloway. Van Gundy inked him to a three-year deal, locking him up until he is 28 years old. After playing the first two seasons of his career with the New York Knicks, Galloway spent time with both the New Orleans Pelicans and the Sacramento Kings last season. With Reggie Jackson and Ish Smith manning the point guard position for Detroit, Galloway will likely spend the majority of his time on the court as an off-ball guard. While last year he played 75 percent of his minutes at point guard, Detroit has a need for him at the shooting guard spot. After being traded by New Orleans at the Trade Deadline last year, Galloway played 19 games with the Kings. He showcased supreme efficiency scoring the ball, as he averaged six points per game on 40.4 percent shooting from the field and 47.5 percent shooting from deep. He also averaged 1.8 rebounds and 1.5 assists per game. Galloway's range is his best ability on the court, as he can shoot the long ball from just about anywhere.
Excited for @LangGalloway10 in a @DetroitPistons jersey? You should be. pic.twitter.com/Ii0hMez8gS
— Aaron Johnson (@AJohnsonNBA) July 10, 2017
The St. Joseph's product will provide Detroit with solid depth at both guard spots, but he could face competition for the backup minutes that seeming should be his. Luke Kennard displayed an array of capabilities throughout the Orlando Summer League, as he scored the ball, created for himself and his teammates, and shot efficiently. Reggie Bullock, always a steady contributor when his number is called, should also receive consideration for playing time next year. As of now, Galloway should be considered the favorite to receive backup shooting guard minutes. Considering the experience he has and the contract he signed, it makes the most sense for him to see the floor more than Kennard or Bullock. Galloway has much to prove, as many have said the Pistons overpaid for him. With a better team surrounding him, it seems plausible that Galloway could improve and be a key figure for Detroit's second unit. Featured Image: Ed Szczepanski-USA TODAY Sports