2024 Pistons Mock Offseason: Volume Two

Volume Two of The Detroit Elite’s mock offseason series is here and it consists of two major additions joining the Pistons. In this scenario, the Pistons focus on adding veteran pieces with the potential of expanding into even larger roles than they currently have with their respective teams. Before diving in, this is just a hypothetical mock scenario based on my knowledge of the NBA and things that could realistically happen.

The Detroit Pistons offer a max contract to OG Anunoby and trade the 5th pick for Naz Reid in this mock offseason scenario.

Detroit lands two gritty, experienced, winning pieces by leveraging their best assets (money & the top 5 pick). Most importantly, both could evolve their game with larger roles on the Pistons. Along with those big moves, Detroit locks up Simone Fontecchio and adds some depth at point guard and center.

The OG Anunoby Offer:

4 years - 160 million guaranteed (40 mil per year)

A champion, prototypical 3-D, and legitimate two way stud. The Knicks without a doubt want to re-sign OG, but with rumored injury protections built into the contract. Detroit has the cap to go all in and worry less about the injury protections. Many fans will continue to worry about OG’s injury history, but this is a risk you have to take. He pulled a hamstring and had a moderate elbow injury this past season. Neither were anything major and should not cause future concern.

My favorite part of landing Anunoby is what a future defensive duo he and Ausar Thompson can make. Opposing stars will be in hell going from Anunoby to Thompson all game. Make this happen, please.

The Naz Reid Trade:

MIN: #5 pick, Isaiah Stewart

DET: Naz Reid, Nickeil Alexander-Walker

Detroit is getting a very versatile stretch big man who looks primed for a larger role on both sides of the ball. Naz is a mobile big man who can put the ball on the floor and keep the offense flowing. This move probably doesn’t happen without an assurance that Naz will sign long term and be a core piece going forward, considering, after next season he will have a player option. Regardless, Reid is very well worth the 5th pick in this draft.

Adding NAW's defense/guard play is nothing to sleep on either. Throughout the playoffs, we’ve seen NAW’s willingness to defend and lockup the opposing stud guard.

Minnesota is getting a long term guarantee and cheaper version of Naz in Isaiah Stewart. You have to believe, Reid’s next contract will command 20+ mil annually. The #5 pick for the Wolves is very enticing, as they could look to find Ant Edwards long term running mate in the backcourt. My immediate thought is Stephon Castle. What an absolute nasty duo that would be going forward.

Filling in the Holes:

After the trade and OG contract you have around 21 mil cap space remaining of 64 mil (estimated) Detroit started with.

Simone Fontecchio re-signs - 3 year - 42 mil (14 per)

Cam Payne signs 1 year - Minimum

Mo Bamba signs 2 year - Minimum

James Wiseman re-signs 2 year - Minimum

Pistons New Lineup:

Cunningham - Ivey - OG - Reid - Duren

Bench: Fontecchio, Ausar, NAW, Grimes, Sasser, Payne, Bamba & Wiseman