Detroit Pistons: A comprehensive guide to the Pistons’ free agency targets

Veteran leadership

Many fans only want young players on the roster, as evidenced by the negative reactions to players like Derrick Rose, Langston Galloway, Reggie Jackson and Markieff Morris still being on the team after the deadline. The truth of the matter is having veterans on the team is necessary to building a culture and teaching some of the young players good habits in the midst of a lot of losing.

Someone like Jared Dudley, who has split up his career between winning situations and tanking situations, who be a great chemistry add if he were to leave the Lakers and the chance at winning a title. Jeff Green is a similar type of player and is the quintessential journeyman type of player who could help young guys along.

In terms of guards, pairing Jeff Teague with Derrick Rose provides leaders at both guard positions to help along the likely guard selected with this year’s lottery pick. Aron Baynes and Kyle O’Quinn make sense at the center position. None of these players is going to completely change the course of the franchise, but like fan-favorite role player Anthony Tolliver before there are clear positives to having these kinds of players there to nurture the growth of young guys. Also, they become movable at the trade deadline for assets should things go as south as expected.

Personally, I have missed Baynes as a Detroit Piston and would welcome him back immediately. He is a cost-effective option at center who brings hustle and hard work on a consistent basis. If I could only pick one player in this section it would be him.