Detroit Pistons: A look back at NBA Draft history before 2017
By Deasia Paige
Approaching the NBA Draft, the Detroit Pistons historically haven’t always had the best of luck, but they do have some standout picks.
After a disappointing season, the Detroit Pistons are slated to have the 12th overall pick in the draft. It’s possible that the pick will not significantly change the fortune of the team. However, the Pistons are in dire need of roster changes, so whoever they pick will ultimately impact their team and hopefully lead them in the right direction.
There isn’t a doubt that the Pistons need to revamp their team and simply need fresh talent to revive their roster. Thus, their decision should include a player who will bring some energy to their squad and one who will be consistent on both ends of the floor. But, to better understand the Pistons’ mindset, it’s crucial to reflect on earlier draft picks.
Historically, the Pistons have not had a stellar draft history. In fact, it’s been quite lackluster. They have typically drafted late in the first round or early in the second round. The Pistons haven’t had luck at the top of the draft since they picked Isiah Thomas at No. 2 overall in 1981, but they’ve been able to acquire some valuable players in the past.
Tayshaun Prince, a late first round pick in 2002, proved to be an effective player and will be remembered as one of the greatest Pistons players ever. Not only did Prince go from averaging 3.3 points per game in his rookie season to 10.2 per game the next, his defensive play in blocking Reggie Miller‘s shot and eventually guarding Kobe Bryant were key factors in the Pistons’ route to an NBA championship in 2004.
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The last time that the Pistons had the 12th overall pick was in 1981 when they selected Kelly Tripucka. He is probably the greatest No. 12 pick in Pistons history, considering they’ve selected there five times overall. During Tripucka’s rookie season, he averaged 21.6 points per game and made the All-Star team. He also led the Pistons to their first playoff appearance since the 1976-77 season.
Detroit’s other selections at No. 12 include Ron Johnson (1960), Johnny Egan (1961), Jerry Smith (1963) and Dorie Murrey (1966).
Before selecting Henry Ellenson as the 18th overall pick last season, the Pistons did have some standout picks within top 10. Their past No. 8 picks have proven to be valuable to their current team. In 2015, the Pistons selected Stanley Johnson as their eighth overall pick.
In a Februrary win over the New York Knicks, he recorded a season-high of 22 points, nine rebounds, five assists, two steals, and one block in a performance that suggested his rookie year might meet expectations. However, it was only followed by disappointment when he was assigned to the Grand Rapids Drive of the D-League. He was later recalled.
Kentavious Caldwell-Pope is another player who was selected as the eighth overall pick by the Detroit Pistons. Caldwell-Pope easily proved his significant impact on defense during his rookie season. Head coach Stan Van Gundy mentioned that Caldwell-Pope was his best perimeter defender. However, his offense is just as good.
During the 2015-16 season, he scored a then career-high of 31 points while averaging a career-high of 14.5 points per game on 42 percent shooting. Last season, Caldwell-Pope scored a career-high of 38 points along with eight three-pointers. It’s clear the Caldwell-Pope is already one of the Pistons’ greatest weapons.
Andre Drummond was another notable pick within top 10. Drafted as the ninth overall pick in 2012, Drummond proved himself to be the Pistons’ franchise player. He’s proven to be an effective post player for the Pistons, although last season was underwhelming with the many trade rumors surrounding him.
Next: 2017 NBA Mock Draft: Final edition
While a draft pick certainly can’t erase the mess that the Pistons are currently in, it can surely save them and hopefully make them return to the playoffs next season.