Sharpshooting and Strategy: Why the Pistons Made the Right Call with Chaz Lanier

July 2, 2025

The Detroit Pistons selected Tennessee guard Chaz Lanier with the 37th overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft, their only selection due to a previous trade with the Minnesota Timberwolves. This strategic second-round pick addresses the team's potential loss of perimeter shooting as five unrestricted free agents may depart during the offseason. At 23 years old, Lanier brings elite three-point shooting ability, having connected on 229 three-pointers at a 41.

Who is affected

The Detroit Pistons organization and roster
Cade Cunningham and Jaden Ivey (team playmakers who benefit from floor spacing)
The five unrestricted free agents on the market
Malik Beasley (whose role Lanier could potentially fill)
Chaz Lanier himself
Pistons fans and supporters
Trajan Langdon (team president implementing his roster strategy)

What action is being taken

The Pistons are drafting Chaz Lanier with their 37th overall pick in the 2025 NBA Draft
The team is addressing their potential loss of shooting and experience through strategic draft selection
Trajan Langdon is implementing his "optionality" blueprint for roster flexibility
The organization is preparing for the possible departure of free agents by adding perimeter scoring

Why it matters

The Pistons face losing five unrestricted free agents, potentially depleting their shooting and experience
Lanier's elite shooting ability (41.5% from three-point range) directly addresses a critical team need
The pick represents a cost-effective solution to maintain offensive spacing without committing significant resources
The selection supports the team's momentum after a 30-win improvement in the 2024-25 season
Lanier's NBA-ready skills could provide immediate contribution rather than long-term development

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: Michigan Chronicle