The Detroit Pistons are expected to make roster upgrades this summer. Following a disappointing exit in the second round of the playoffs, the team is under pressure to make significant progress. They plan to be aggressive in both free agency and the trade market to add more offensive talent.
Thanks to their available assets and salary cap flexibility, the Pistons have several options. While the free-agent market has solid choices, Detroit cannot afford to misstep with its signings.
One such option is Norman Powell. The veteran shooting guard fits the profile of player the Pistons should pursue. After making his first All-Star appearance last season, Powell is an unrestricted free agent and should be within reach.
Few teams have significant cap space this summer, and Detroit is one of the few that can offer Powell more than the non-taxpayer mid-level exception, which starts at $15 million per year. At 33, Powell is a three-level scorer who has hit nearly 40% of his career three-point attempts while consistently attacking the rim.
At this point in his career, Powell could serve as the ideal sixth man for a title contender. He could still log about 30 minutes per game and be on the floor during closing lineups. He’s capable of leading bench units when Cade Cunningham sits, while also fitting seamlessly alongside him in the backcourt.
The same cannot be said for every veteran shooting guard. CJ McCollum is coming off a strong season as well, but he wouldn’t be the right fit in Detroit.
McCollum’s name often comes up among Pistons fans on social media, which is understandable given his strong finish to the season in Atlanta. On paper, his skill set matches what Detroit needs.
In practice, however, the Pistons should aim higher. McCollum will be 35 before next season begins and is a much bigger defensive liability than Powel he is routinely targeted on that end. He’s also less effective away from the ball than Powell.
McCollum thrives with the ball in his hands, relying on self-created mid-range shots and pull-up threes. While that could help when Cunningham is on the bench, it makes him a poorer fit next to Cunningham on the floor. Detroit needs players who are comfortable moving without the ball and spacing the floor for their star.
At this stage of their careers, Powell is simply a more dynamic and dangerous offensive player. McCollum’s playoff performance against the Knicks was impressive, but Detroit shouldn’t put too much stock into that production.
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