The Detroit Pistons are experiencing significant growing pains during the 2024 offseason. After parting ways with former head coach Monty Williams in June, they are now focused on bolstering their roster during the NBA Free Agency period. One notable move includes acquiring former Joel Embiid backup, Paul Reed.
According to Shams Charania, the Pistons claimed Reed off free agency waivers. The 25-year-old is in the second season of a three-year, $24 million deal and aims to provide valuable depth to Detroit’s frontcourt.
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Reed began his NBA career with the Philadelphia 76ers, who selected him with the 58th pick in the 2020 Draft. As he developed, his role on the team expanded. Reed’s 2023-24 season was a career-best, with averages of 7.3 points, 6.0 rebounds, 1.0 blocks, and 0.8 steals in 19.4 minutes per game. He was a key bench player supporting Joel Embiid and other frontcourt members.
An increased role with the Pistons could lead to significant improvement for Reed in the 2024-25 season.
The Pistons finished the 2023-24 season with a 14-68 record, ranking last in the Eastern Conference. Despite this, the team has ample talent to build on, led by star point guard Cade Cunningham. Cunningham, who signed a five-year max rookie extension, aims to continue leading the team to greater success. Additionally, Detroit is excited about another important free agency acquisition.
### Pistons Welcome Another Key Free Agency Addition
In the 2024 NBA Free Agency period, the Pistons secured another vital piece from the Sixers, signing Tobias Harris to a two-year deal worth approximately $56 million. Harris, who previously played with the Pistons after a trade from the Orlando Magic in 2016, returns to provide strong offensive production and veteran leadership.
Harris, a 32-year-old forward, averaged 17.2 points per game in his final season with the Sixers but did not meet postseason expectations. However, ClutchPoints’ Pistons Beat Reporter Eric Vincent rated the Harris acquisition a “B+” for several reasons.
First, Harris’ contract was affordable given the Pistons’ cap space, allowing for future flexibility. Second, Harris offers much-needed floor spacing and scoring help. The Pistons were among the league’s worst in three-point shooting in 2023-24, averaging 35% as a team. Harris, who shot 35.3% from three, can contribute in various offensive ways, including scoring off the dribble and utilizing his strength in the post.
Lastly, Harris’ experience is invaluable for Detroit’s younger players. Having playoff experience and playing alongside elite talent like Joel Embiid for six seasons, Harris’ presence is expected to provide a significant boost.
As NBA Free Agency continues, it will be interesting to see what additional moves the Pistons make.
