The 2022 NBA Draft has come and gone. Some teams left the draft with significant upgrades to their teams, while others dropped the ball completely. The Detroit Pistons had the fifth overall pick in the draft after falling a couple of spots in the lottery.
So did the lottery results negatively affect the outcome? Or were they able to still end up with an overall positive 2022 NBA Draft?
Without further ado, here are the Pistons' 2022 NBA Draft grades.
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Detroit Pistons 2022 NBA Draft Grades
1st round, 5th pick: Jaden Ivey
The Pistons selected Jaden Ivey out of Purdue with the 5th overall pick in the NBA Draft. In many ways, this was one of the steals of the draft… and typically steals don't occur at pick number 5.
The Sacramento Kings made the bold decision to not trade their number 4 pick. However, they also opted not to pick Jaden Ivey which has raised some eyebrows around the league. Nonetheless, Ivey fell to the Pistons who now have a lethal backcourt between Ivey and Cade Cunningham.
The Purdue product has drawn comparisons to players such as Ja Morant and peak Russell Westbrook because of his natural explosiveness and athleticism. His jump shot shot isn't perfect, but he has the ability to finish at the rim and draw fouls.
The Pistons got a very talented player in Jaden Ivey.
Grade: A+
1st round, 13th pick: Jalen Duren
Ivey was an early-draft steal. But Jalen Duren out of Memphis established the 2022 NBA Draft as a success for Detroit.
The Pistons acquired Duren and Kemba Walker from the New York Knicks in a shocking trade during the draft.
Duren is a powerful force around the rim. He features a fine combination of shot-blocking ability as well as interior scoring prowess. He doesn't space the floor well but but should fare well with playmakers such as Cade Cunningham and Jaden Ivey manning the backcourt.
Duren was the X-Factor on draft night for Detroit.
Grade: A
2nd round, 36th pick: Gabriele Procida
Detroit selected Gabriele Procida out of Italy with the 36th overall pick.
Up to this point, it had been an excellent draft for the Pistons. But this was surprising to say the least. Now that isn't to say Procida can't be a good player. However, he isn't quite ready to make an impact in the league just yet. However, he could be a factor for Detroit in a couple of years.
There is some upside given his athleticism and shooting ability. But Procida projects as a secondary scorer off the bench. He could obviously exceed expectations down the road, but this was a surprising selection by the Pistons.
Grade: B-
Detroit Pistons overall draft results and grade
The Pistons first two picks were impressive. They added a quality duo between Ivey and Duren. Both players have opportunities to be stars.
Jaden Ivey is especially exciting. He truly could be the next Ja Morant. No, I don't believe they feature the exact same skill sets. But Morant's impact on the Memphis Grizzlies could be what Ivey brings to Detroit.
Meanwhile, Jalen Duren could follow in the steps of star-studded big men such as Joel Embiid and Nikola Jokic. Talented centers are making a comeback and Duren has plenty of potential.
The Gabriele Procida pick was an underwhelming selection. But it's better to miss late than early when it comes to the draft.
Overall, the Pistons should be pleased with the results of the 2022 NBA Draft.
Overall NBA Draft grade: A
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