The Detroit Pistons’ summer of change continued to move at a breakneck pace this week with the signings of Caron Butler and D.J. Augustin. Having taken over in his dual role of coaching and basketball operations, it was clear Stan Van Gundy wanted to put his own stamp on the team, and that’s exactly what has happened with his five signings so far.
Both Butler and Augustin will help to provide the team with qualities that they lacked last season, and with neither player signing to an excessive contract, it seems like good business for Detroit. What last year’s Pistons group had in talent, it lacked for in maturity, cohesion and discipline, but that should improve significantly next season following the team’s free agency acquisitions.
Butler may be 34 years old, but he’s still got plenty left in his tank to contribute in the NBA. His leadership, toughness and skill will be big additions to the Pistons as a franchise.
Augustin is a six-year veteran point guard who can score and distribute, and will fill the void left by Rodney Stuckey in the Motor City.
The signings of both players seem like shrewd moves, but let’s take a closer look at what exactly they’ll bring to the Pistons.