The 5 worst free agent signings in Detroit Pistons history

Jon Leuer

Another failed experiment of the Stan Van Gundy era, the logic made sense for taking a chance on Jon Leuer. Prior to coming to Detroit Leuer had shot 46.9 percent and 38.2 percent from three in two of the three previous seasons. As a reserve who could play either power forward or center the versatility made a lot of sense. In the summer of 2016 the Pistons signed Leuer to a four-year $42 million contract.

Jon Leuer proceeded to only make 50 3-point shots over his three season with the team, 49 of which came in his first season. Playing in only 49 games over his last two seasons surely limited his effectiveness but Leuer just never lived up to his role.

This was a classic over-payment for a franchise paying borderline starter caliber money for a bench player. While there is an acknowledged tax that small market, non-playoff teams pay on free agents this was a reach even in that context. Leuer was the typical Van Gundy project, akin to Ryan Anderson in Van Gundy’s Orlando tenure but reality was not the same as the vision.

Similar to Galloway, Leuer was the type of contract that keeps you unable to sign potential free agents or be too active in taking back salary in trades. Unlike Galloway, Leuer did not come close to living up to the contract he was signed to. When you are signed to be a floor spacer and your best shooting season is highlighted by 29.3 from distance you know things have gone terribly wrong.