NBA Free Agency 2018: One signing every team should make

CLEVELAND, OH - JUNE 08: LeBron James #23 of the Cleveland Cavaliers reacts against the Golden State Warriors during Game Four of the 2018 NBA Finals at Quicken Loans Arena on June 8, 2018 in Cleveland, Ohio. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images) /

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ORLANDO, FL – MARCH 24: Elfrid Payton #2 of the Phoenix Suns goes to the basket against the Orlando Magic on March 24, 2018 at Amway Center in Orlando, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2018 NBAE (Photo by Fernando Medina/NBAE via Getty Images) /

Detroit Pistons — Elfrid Payton

The Pistons, with Blake Griffin, Reggie Jackson and Andre Drummond on the books, don’t have a lot of options for a roster that needs some improvement. Jackson, in particular, needs to be either replaced and upgraded or supplemented with another point guard. Fred VanVleet would make a lot of sense here alongside ex-Raptors coach Dwane Casey, but he’s likely to be far too expensive for Detroit.

That could open the door for someone like Payton, who may not have a future with the Suns. His lack of shooting is a concern for this roster, but every point guard at his level has some warts to work around. If he can continue some of the improvement he showed with the Suns last season, he could offer some ball handling and creation that is, at minimum, for Jackson. Remember: Jackson has dealt with some significant injuries in the last few years and missed a large chunk of last season.

Payton could also benefit from this type of situation, particularly if he signs a shorter contract that gets him back on the open market in a year or two. He’s still 24 year old and has some time to develop. If he has a good year with the Pistons, and perhaps outplays Jackson, he could force himself into their plans moving forward. It’s not an optimal fit for both sides, but neither can really afford to be picky about opportunities.

Detroit could also make a run at a number of serviceable point guards potentially available for the minimum. They could also use a backup for Drummond.

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