Why the Pistons Should Target Collin Gillespie in Free Agency
The Detroit Pistons have a golden opportunity to bolster their roster by targeting Phoenix Suns point guard Collin Gillespie. He's emerged as one of the most improved players in the league, transitioning from a fringe player to a key starter for a playoff-contending team. Despite his impressive rise, Gillespie remains under the radar-a situation the Pistons should capitalize on.
Gillespie's stats tell the story of his transformation. This season, he's played more games (58) than in his first two NBA seasons combined (57).
Last year, he averaged 5.9 points, 2.4 assists, and 2.4 rebounds in just 14 minutes per game. Fast forward to this season, and he's putting up 13.4 points, 4.7 assists, and 4.1 rebounds per game, while shooting .431/.420/.843.
He's also started 39 games, contributing to a Suns team that's already close to surpassing last year's win total.
His impact is clear: the Suns are 6.8 points per 100 possessions better with him on the floor. For a Pistons team looking to relieve the pressure on superstar Cade Cunningham, Gillespie is the perfect fit.
Gillespie: The Missing Piece for Detroit
Cade Cunningham is carrying the Pistons' offense, with the team’s offensive rating dropping significantly when he's off the court. The need for a complementary playmaker is evident. Daniss Jenkins has shown promise but is limited to 17.1 minutes per game, while Ausar Thompson's offensive limitations could be a liability in the playoffs.
Gillespie could fill this void. His ability to create plays and space the floor is precisely what Detroit needs.
He's shooting an impressive 49.0 percent on catch-and-shoot threes, a stark contrast to the Pistons' 35.6 percent, which ranks 25th in the league. His 4.7 assists per game would be second only to Cunningham on the team.
Defensive Prowess
Gillespie isn't just an offensive asset. He's a standout defender, ranking in the 87th percentile in off-ball chaser defense and the 86th percentile in ball screen navigation. His skills in both on and off-ball situations make him a versatile addition on both ends of the floor.
If the Pistons have the chance to sign Gillespie, it's an opportunity they shouldn't pass up. His unique skill set aligns perfectly with Detroit's needs, offering a blend of offensive firepower and defensive tenacity that could propel the team to new heights.