Former Michigan Captain Among Early Candidates For Pistons GM

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The Pistons don't appear close to hiring their next general manager, but they've identified at least three early candidates. 

One of them started his journey in Michigan. 

Among those under consideration are former Suns GM Ryan McDonough, former Hawks GM Wes Wilcox and former Michigan center and current assistant GM of the Clippers Mark Hughes, according to the New York Daily News. 

Detroit's search, which began last week, is expected to be extensive. The club is looking for someone to work in tandem with senior advisor Ed Stefanski and head coach Dwane Casey. 

Pistons search for GM expected to be extensive. Among those under consideration, per sources: former Suns GM Ryan McDonough, former Hawks GM Wes Wilcox and current Clippers assistant GM Mark Hughes. https://t.co/PMC4sQhm6n

— Stefan Bondy (@SBondyNYDN) June 2, 2020

The 53-year-old Hughes, who co-captained the 1988-89 Wolverines to a national championship, has been the Clippers assistant GM since 2017. He's also served as director of player personnel for the Knicks and as an assistant coach for the Kings and the Magic. He began his basketball career at Reeths-Puffer High School in Muskegon. 

McDonough, 39, served as GM of the Suns from 2013-18 following a 10-year stint in the front office of the Celtics, including his job as assistant GM during Boston's 2007-08 championship season. He was a runner-up for Executive of the Year his first season in Phoenix when he led the Suns to a 23-win improvement.

Wilcox, 41, was GM of the Hawks from 2015-17. Atlanta made the playoffs in each of his two seasons, but he resigned from his position as the team went into a rebuild. He also spent seven years with the Cavaliers, including two seasons as an assistant coach.