The Detroit Pistons drafted Balsa Koprivica in the second round of the NBA Draft. On draft night, The Pistons and Charlotte Hornets made a trade that sent him to Detroit. While Mason Plumlee and the 37th pick were sent to Charlotte.
Many Pistons fans have never heard of Koprivica before and what he brings to the table for the Pistons. Here is a full breakdown of what Koprivica brings to the Pistons.
Rim Protecting
Koprivica’s best skill is rim protecting. He has about a 7-4 wingspan that allows him to block shots like there’s no tomorrow. Last season, he averaged 1.4 blocks per game and ranked 8th in the ACC.
It’s going to be a block party down in the paint for Detroit. He will be joining Isaiah Stewart, who averaged and had the most block shots out of all the rookies last season. He is going to be the rim protector for the Pistons coming off the bench next season.
Field Goals
Koprivica is not only a great rim protector, but he is a great scorer. Last year at Florida State, he averaged 59.9% from field goal range and ranked 5th in the ACC. Even though Koprivica does not three-point shot yet. During the offseason, he has been working on developing a three-point shot.
The Pistons needed someone who can score easy 2-point shots. The Pistons ranked 23rd in the league in 2-point scores last season. Koprivica is going to make a significant impact on the Pistons as an interior scorer.
He has so much time to develop and grow as a player. I can see Koprivica playing lots for the Piston’s new G-League team the Motor City Cruise. Koprivica will still be able to practice with the team. While also gaining experience and minutes when playing for the Cruise down at Wayne State’s new basketball arena.
