As the buzz around a potential expansion draft grows louder, the Detroit Pistons' past experiences serve as a cautionary tale. Back in the 1989 Expansion Draft, the Pistons lost Rick Mahorn right after clinching a championship, only to watch him earn an All-Defensive selection the following year. Though Detroit managed to snag another title without him, they missed out on some of his prime years.
Navigating an expansion draft is a tightrope act for deep teams like the Pistons. It's clear that protecting young talents such as Cade Cunningham, Jalen Duren, and Ausar Thompson is a top priority. However, with contributions coming from over a dozen players this season, not everyone can be shielded.
As we delve deeper into the roster, Duncan Robinson and Isaiah Stewart also emerge as key players to protect, thanks to their crucial skill sets and significant roles. Beyond them, the decisions get trickier, hinging on how the front office views other role players and their long-term potential.
One player who stands out as a potential gem for an expansion team is Paul Reed. Serving as the third-string center, Reed has thrived whenever given the chance to start in place of Duren or Stewart. Averaging 14 points, 8 rebounds, 2 steals, and 2 blocks per game as a starter, and boasting a 7-1 record in those games, Reed has proven his worth.
Reed has been an unsung hero for Detroit, with his defensive prowess and impressive plus/minus numbers making a significant impact. For a fledgling team, he could easily step into a starting role or serve as a reliable sixth man, providing stability and surprising offensive contributions.
With the Pistons' roster brimming with talent, losing a player like Reed in an expansion draft seems almost inevitable. While he may not have the same name recognition as Mahorn, Reed could become another reminder of the risks involved in these drafts.