The Pistons are a blank slate and could go any number of directions here. The only real assets of value are Luke Kennard and Christian Wood, assuming the latter re-signs. Neither should prevent Detroit from taking someone like Onyeka Okongwu, arguably the top big man in this year’s class.
Okongwu lacks a degree of size at 6-foot-9, but he’s a tantalizing athlete who presents major upside on both sides of the ball. He’s a smart, fundamentally-sound rim protector who can defend in space and survive switches. On the other end, he was one of the most efficient finishers in college basketball. Once he gets to the rim, he seldom misses.
While not the most exciting prospect, Okongwu occupies the role of most successful modern-day bigs. He doesn’t need the ball to succeed, and he can potentially anchor a versatile defensive scheme. Put him next to shooters and a solid pick-and-roll guard, and Detroit should reap the benefits.