Detroit Pistons Roster
- Eastern Central
- Stadium
- Little Caesars Arena
The Knicks traded guard Kemba Walker to the Pistons on Thursday night as a part of a three-way trade with Charlotte. However, Walker isn't expected to remain in Detroit, with ESPN NBA Insider Adrian Wojnarowski reporting that both sides are already discussing a buyout. The 32-year-old has been a capable fantasy producer over the years. Yet, he's battled numerous injuries throughout his career and hasn't played an entire season since 2018-19. Nonetheless, Walker will likely see significant interest from clubs looking to add depth. Still, his days as a consistent fantasy option are probably over, although he should have some effective outings here and there in 2022-23.
Detroit Pistons guard Cory Joseph has reportedly opted into his $5.1 million player option for next season. He averaged eight points and 3.6 assists across 65 games last season with Detroit. Joseph started 39 games for the Pistons, often times alongside Cade Cunningham. The expectation is that Cunningham will do more of the ball handling in his second season. That being said, Joseph is likely to have a reduced role in the Detroit rotation. He didn't offer much fantasy value to start, but it's likely to get worse heading into next season.
Upcoming free agent Marvin Bagley III undoubtedly has failed to live up to expectations since being selected with the No. 2 overall pick of the 2018 NBA Draft. He's averaged 13.6 points and 7.4 rebounds throughout his career, although he hasn't logged more than 62 games in any given season. However, after the Pistons landed the 23-year-old ahead of the trade deadline, the franchise has "very strong interest" in keeping him on the roster. While Bagley certainly has a way to go before convincing managers he's worthy of a spot, he could be worth the risk late in fantasy drafts of deeper formats, especially if he carves out a sizable role for his future club in 2022-23 and remains healthy in the process.
Detroit Pistons forward Jerami Grant may be on the move. Detroit is expected to heavily pursue Deandre Ayton, who will be a restricted free agent this summer. Because the Suns can match any potential offer, the Pistons may dangle Grant to orchestrate a sign-and-trade deal. The 28-year-old finished last season by averaging 19.2 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 1.0 blocks. However, he has missed more than enough time due to injuries throughout his two seasons in the Motor City. Grant will be entering the final year of his current contract and is eligible for a lucrative extension. Still, until he can remain healthy for an entire season, his fantasy ceiling will be lower, regardless of where he suits up come October.
Detroit Pistons guard Cade Cunningham (hip) has been ruled out for Sunday's game against the Philadelphia 76ers. The rookie guard is going to sit out the regular season finale due to hip soreness. His absence means Killian Hayes and Saben Lee will see more playing time coming their way. Hayes is the better fantasy option between the two. He could have some streaming appeal with an extended role on Sunday.
