After last week’s roster moves, the Detroit Pistons could have around $17 million to spend in NBA free agency 2021 when it opens Monday at 6 p.m.
They will also have access to two cap exceptions. The bi-annual exception, which teams can use every two years, will be $3.7 million this season and can be used to sign players to two-year contracts, with the second year including a 5% raise. Detroit will also have the room exception, available to teams with cap space, worth $4.9 million in Year 1 (and $10 million total up to two years).
Here are six players the Pistons could pursue in free agency.
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SG Tim Hardaway Jr., Dallas Mavericks
2020-21 averages: 16.6 points, 39.1% from 3.
It’s unclear the Pistons can make a competitive-enough offer for Hardaway, who has emerged as one of the league’s best shooters and most shameless gunners. But he would fill a big need for them. He’s a career 36% shooter from 3 who is coming off his two best seasons from outside, logging a 39.8% 3-point clip in 2019-20 and 39.1% clip last season. His previous contract paid him close to $71 million through four seasons, and he’s coming off of a strong showing in the playoffs while still in his prime. If he signed with Detroit, the former Michigan star would be reunited with his college coach, John Beilein.
C Robin Lopez, Washington Wizards
2020-21 averages: Nine points, 3.8 rebounds, 63.3% shooting.
Lopez, 33 and entering his 14th season, is coming off the most efficient season of his career. He’s a reliable post defender and has developed a nifty hook shot, and could play alongside Isaiah Stewart or behind him.
PF/C JaMychal Green, Denver Nuggets
2020-21 averages: 8.1 points, 4.8 rebounds, 39.9% from 3.
A career 38% 3-point shooter, Green can slide in at the four or five and provide the Pistons needed spacing. He declined his $7.6 million player option, an indication he’s looking for a raise. The Athletic’s Shams Charania reported there’s mutual interest between the Nuggets and Green for a return.
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F Doug McDermott, Indiana Pacers
2020-21 averages: 13.6 points, 53.2% shooting, 38.8% from 3.
The veteran forward is coming off one of his best seasons, setting career highs in points and field goal percentage. His last contract paid him an average of $7.3 million per year.
C Nerlens Noel, New York Knicks
2020-21 averages: 5.1 points, 6.4 rebounds, 2.2 blocks.
He was a key role player for a defensively stout Knicks team last season, and his reputation as a rim protector would be welcomed by the Pistons. He signed a one-year, $5 million deal with New York last year.
PG Raul Neto, Wizards
2020-21 averages: 8.7 points, 2.3 assists, 39% from 3.
Outplayed his $1.9 million contract last season, providing efficient shooting and steady playmaking off the bench for Washington. His points per game were a career-high, and he’s a career 38.2% shooter from 3.
Contact Omari Sankofa II at osankofa@freepress.com. Follow him on Twitter @omarisankofa. Read more on the Detroit Pistons and sign up for our Pistons newsletter.