The Pistons have lost 15 of their last 16 games and look like a lock to finish last in the NBA – which, at this point, is clearly the goal. You may have heard of a certain 7'4, 19-year-old Frenchman in the NBA Draft.
Victor Wembanyama is sure to go first overall. But the Pistons are hardly sure to have the first overall pick. Even if they do finish last, they're much more likely to land somewhere from No. 2 to No. 4 via the lottery. They would have a 14 percent of picking No. 1 and a 52.1 percent chance of picking in the top four. And remember, if Detroit doesn't win the lottery, we can't rule out GM Troy Weaver trading down.
In light of that, and considering we're in the thick of March Madness, let's look at four players who are still alive in the NCAA Tournament whose names could be called by the Pistons with one of the top picks in June.
Brandon Miller, Alabama. The SEC Player of the Year dominated in his freshman season, averaging 19.1 points, 8.2 boards and shooting nearly 40 percent from three. A 6'9 forward with superstar potential, Miller is the full package offensively and will almost certainly be the first college player off the board.
NBA comparison, per NBADraft.net: Paul George
Alabama's next game is Friday night against San Diego State.
Jarace Walker, Houston. The AAC Freshman of the Year was an instant starter for one of the best teams in the country. And at 6'8, 240 pounds, he already boasts the body to match up in the NBA. Walker could be a lockdown interior defender for a long time at the next level, which will certainly appeal to Weaver -- who's hellbent on fixing the Pistons' defense.
NBA comparison: Tim Thomas
Houston's next game is Friday night against Miami.
Nick Smith, Arkansas. The No. 1 recruit in the country last year missed a chunk of the season with a knee injury, but returned in style with three 20-point games down the stretch. A 6'5 combo guard, Smith would admittedly be redundant to Jaden Ivey, but his athleticism and play-making will certainly translate to the NBA. And the Pistons aren't good enough to be prioritizing need over talent in the need.
NBA comparison: Jamal Crawford
Anthony Black, Arkansas. Yeah, the 8-seed Razorbacks have two likely top-10 picks. (And you wonder why they knocked off Kansas.) Black is a 6'7 point forward who, in this case, would be redundant to Cade Cunningham. But again, the talent is undeniable. He's a terrific passer, arguably an even better defender and a dynamic scorer above the rim.
NBA comparison: Josh Giddey/Steve Smith
Arkansas' next game is Thursday night against UConn.
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