Who will the Pistons Take with the 12th Pick?
The NBA Draft is today and as of now, the Pistons hold the 12th pick in it. The PalaceOfPistons' staff makes their final decisions on who they think Detroit should take.
Matthew Crowe(MatthewCrowe313)- Zach Collins PF/C
If you're of the opinion that 2015-16 is more indicative of this team's true potential, then the Pistons should look at someone who can be crack the rotation by his sophomore season. If you believe that 2016-17 is closer to reality, then you pick the player with the highest ceiling, period. Personally, I fall into the first category. I think that they'll resign KCP, Andre will take a step forward defensively, and Tobias will cement himself into one of the starting forward spots. Assuming Reggie Jackson regains his health, I believe that team is a playoff contender.... I think that Detroit should take Zack Collins and hope that he develops into a floor stretching, shot-blocking big man who can hold his own on the perimeter. If he, Stanley, or Ellenson can earn a starting spot, you can't ask for anything more.
Noah Lofman(@NoahLofman)- Luke Kennard SG
I want the Pistons to draft Luke Kennard. Detroit has shown they are unwilling to "blow up" the roster and are still in the business of trying to contend. Kennard can come in right away and make an impact for the Pistons. Detroit finished with the 3rd worst three-point shooting percentage in the league. Luke Kennard had a 44% three-point shooting percentage last year.
J.T Olson(@IceWaterOlson)- Luke Kennard SG
Realistic Scenario- I'd like to see the Pistons draft Luke Kennard. They desperately need a true shooter to help space the floor. His ability to play off the ball and make himself available to teammates will make him a great fit on this team. I'm not sure he'll ever be a star, but he makes everyone around him better and can play a role with the Pistons right away.
Dream Scenario- Dennis Smith is my top choice for the Pistons. His explosiveness and scoring ability are traits you just can't teach. Sure he needs some polishing as point-guard and a defender, but he's still got plenty of time to develop. In the meantime, he's still a guy who can get into the paint at will, collapse the defense, shoot the three, and run the offense. I expect Smith to be a star in the not too distant future.
Dylan Edenfield(@EdenfieldSports)- Donovan Mitchell SG/PG
Donovan Mitchell would be my top option at #12. He's shown superior athleticism along with great shooting ability and lockdown defense, something most of the other prospects in this draft lack. He has also shown that he would be a great presence in the locker room and could eventually turn into the leader of the team.
Aaron Johnson(@AJohnsonNBA)- Donovan Mitchell SG/PG
If he is there at 12, then Detroit has to take him. Mitchell has all the physical tools that he will be able to play right away. Defensively, he is a ballhawk, who can pick up his man at full court length. His potential to play multiple positions at the NBA level is exciting, and his shooting will help the Pistons right away. Mitchell has been sliding up mock drafts, but if he is still there at 12, then he is the guy for Detroit.
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