In their most recent offseason decision, the Detroit Pistons have secured the services of free agent Tobias Harris on a contract worth $52 million over two years. Harris, a 6’8″ forward with extensive NBA experience, excels at shooting three-pointers and defending multiple positions. Let’s analyze this acquisition and explore the reasons behind why it is a logical choice for the Pistons.
Pistons Sign Veteran Wing From 76ers
This was a great acquisition for Detroit. The Pistons have a shortage of wing players, as many of their young core are guards. Cade Cunningham leads as the starting point guard, alongside Jaden Ivey, Marcus Sasser, and Malachi Flynn on the roster. The team lacks depth in the small/power forward positions, with only Ausar Thompson, Jalen Duren, and Isaiah Stewart as notable players. Harris is expected to log significant playing time for the Pistons and contribute to the overall improvement of the team.
Harris’ shooting ability is anticipated to make a significant impact, especially as the Pistons have been known for their lack of three-point shooting. The current roster lacks a serious three-point threat, and even their recent draft pick, Ron Holland, does not fulfill that role. In contrast, Harris averages about four three-point attempts per game and makes over 35% of them, slightly surpassing the league average for the NBA. His adept spacing on the court will benefit the young Pistons. Additionally, the hiring of assistant coach Fred Vinson, renowned for his expertise in shooting mechanics, brings hope for overall team improvement in shooting, drawing from his success in remaking Lonzo Ball’s jump shot.
Beyond his shooting prowess, Harris will play a crucial role in shaping the team’s culture and developing its young talent. As a 31-year-old veteran NBA player who has competed for playoff-contending teams like the Philadelphia 76ers and the Los Angeles Clippers, he brings invaluable experience from high-pressure moments. Harris is well-positioned to mentor the Pistons’ core, guide the young Holland in navigating the NBA, and provide an uplifting presence for a team that had the worst record in the entire league last season.
Tired of Losing
The Pistons made a solid acquisition by signing Harris. Another positive aspect of this move is his contract. The Pistons capitalized on their available cap space by offering Harris a favorable salary. However, in his last four seasons with the 76ers, he earned over $30 million annually. While Harris is widely acknowledged as a top-notch NBA player, many believe that he is not deserving of such a hefty salary. Nonetheless, providing him with this compensation ensured that the Pistons had the flexibility to pursue other deals and made it more likely for Harris to sign with them without having to take a significant pay cut.
This signing also signals the Pistons’ dissatisfaction with their previous performance. By securing the services of Harris and acquiring Tim Hardaway Jr. through a trade, the team is evidently committed to enhancing their performance and winning more games. With a solidified young core, the time has come to bring in seasoned veterans and guide the team toward playoff contention.
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