What should the Pistons do with the fifth pick?

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The NBA draft lottery was completed on Tuesday, May 16th. Although the Pistons, Houston Rockets, Charlotte Hornets, and San Antonio Spurs all had the highest odds for the number one pick, unfortunately, the Detroit Pistons fell to the fifth overall pick, but now have options on the table. Keep the pick? Trade it? General Manager Troy Weaver definitely has some important decisions to make on the newly-acquired fifth pick. However, certain options make more sense than others for this team.

Last offseason, the Pistons also landed the fifth pick, which turned into a future star and second-team all-rookie guard Jaden Ivey.

Trade options

According to Piston Powered, the Pistons are now aggressively pursuing a trade for their fifth pick. It seems to be that this may be the best option for this team. By trading the fifth pick, the Pistons would be able to bring in a proven, developed option to this growing team. Having a developed forward can help this team progress its youth and be established in a starting role, whereas a rookie may have to develop into that role. Pistons fans seem to be split on what this team should do, but I believe the Pistons should look to add a proven wing. The most needed position on the floor for this team has been that wing position, and I think this is a good time as ever to make a deal for that added experience.

Draft options

GM Troy Weaver has been known to draft by team need rather than best available. if the Pistons do decide to keep this pick, there are many options available for a young team looking to add even more young talent. Here are three prospects who I believe would be a great fit for this team. I have taken into account that the Pistons have most likely lost out on the top 3 prospects in this draft (Wembanyama, Miller, Henderson.)

1. Villanova Forward Cam Whitmore

Whitmore, a lengthy, versatile forward, averaged 12,5 points and 5.3 rebounds on 47.8% shooting during his freshman season. He would provide a valuable role to a young developing team.

2. Houston Forward Jarace Walker

Walker averaged 11.2 points and 6.8 boards in a combo forward role for Houston. Very raw, Detroit could be a great place for him to come and learn behind Beef Stew and Jalen Duren. Walker could learn to improve his defense and add another asset to this team.

3.  Overtime Elite G Ausar Thompson

At six-feet-seven inches, Thompson could provide valuable minutes at the guard and forward positions. He is one of the rawest talents in this draft but with proper development, could be one of the best. He averaged 16.3 points and 7.1 boards among G-league competition.

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For more from the author Charles Bolone, follow him out on Twitter here: @cbolone

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