Detroit Pistons: 5 options for pick No. 12 in 2017 NBA Draft

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Feb 26, 2017; Louisville, KY, USA; Louisville Cardinals guard Donovan Mitchell (45) dribbles against Syracuse Orange guard Frank Howard (1) during the first half at KFC Yum! Center. Mandatory Credit: Jamie Rhodes-USA TODAY Sports /

For a team somewhat stuck in mediocrity, the Detroit Pistons could really use a high value pick at No. 12 in the 2017 NBA Draft.

The 2016-17 season did not go according to plan for the Detroit Pistons. After a fine campaign in 2016 where they made the playoffs, the Pistons couldn’t even make the postseason this year. Detroit continues to suffer from having Stan Van Gundy in charge of two jobs and Andre Drummond hasn’t lived up to his potential as a franchise player.

Around Drummond is a collection of role players, none of whom have stepped up aside from maybe Kentavious Caldwell-Pope. But Pope shouldn’t be the second-best player on a playoff team. Trades have brought in Marcus Morris and Tobias Harris, but neither has found consistency so far.

This leaves the Pistons in perhaps the worst position in the NBA: far removed from both tanking and a deep playoff run. Player development and improvement would help the cause a lot. Yet, unless someone like Stanley Johnson can become that young star they need, that second option, they’re going to be stuck.

So, what’s the solution? It’s hard to say. The 2017 NBA Draft can help, but it’s very likely those with the highest ceilings won’t fall to No. 12. That’s why it’s not surprising to see reports that they’re shopping the pick. Should they keep the pick, though, there are some serious options to improve the team.

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