Detroit Pistons 2015 NBA Season Preview

Key Offseason Losses

After not signing him to an extension last summer, it became clear that the Pistons were going to let Greg Monroe walk as a free agent this summer, which they ultimately did as the big man signed with the Milwaukee Bucks.

This is by no means a knock on Monroe as a player as I think he’ll be a key contributor in Milwaukee, but letting the big guy leave was a huge move for the Pistons to move forward under Stan Van Gundy. Monroe was too talented to not get on the floor, but he also mucked up SVG’s offense by clogging the post alongside Drummond. Now that Monroe is out, the system can play out more closely to the way that it’s ideally supposed to.

Key Offseason Additions

The Pistons, again, were active this offseason in trying to build the roster they want. They added Steve Blake, Marcus Morris, Danny Granger and Reggie Bullock through trades, but it was another trade and a free agent signing that stand out in terms of their most important roster additions.

For one, trading Caron Butler and Shawne Williams to Milwaukee for Ersan Ilyasova was huge for this team. Ilysova, though he was often disappointing for the Bucks, seems like an idea fit for a Stan Van Gundy offense. He can rebound well, but can also knock down shots on the perimeter and help to spread the floor, which is exactly what Van Gundy and Detroit want to do.

Without thinking, most people would look at the fact that the Pistons gave Aron Baynes a three-year deal that pays him just under $20 million and think that they’ve lost their mind. However, this is a team that has to pay somewhat of a premium for free agents they want. Moreover, Baynes is an efficient, smart offensive player who plays within himself, is a good rebounder, and has proven himself to be a quality defender. He’ll be a fantastic role player behind Andre Drummond in Detroit.

Next: Most Important Games