Perimeter threat Isaiah Joepurchased by Pistons with the Thunder this offseason, has already won a championship in his career. He looks forward to passing that experience on to his new teammates.
“For me personally, I can bring the experience of knowing what you need to build during the regular season so you can have success in the postseason.” Joe said Coty Davis of the Detroit News. “Everyone here has the same goal, which is always a good sign. There are no egos here. We’re here to achieve the same goals. I’m excited about what I can bring to the team, but also what I can learn from them.”
Detroit holds an $11.3 million option on Joe’s 2027/2028 contract, and a decision will be made next summer if they don’t extend his contract. Joe likes what he sees so far.
“This is a young and hungry team that showed a lot throughout the regular season. They always found a way to win.” said Joe. “These guys are dirty. They work hard and are in the gym every night working on their craft. We have a great system and great coaches. Everyone is in it.”
Here’s more from the Central Division:
- The Pistons also added strength forward John Collins in free agency and Okorie shares through the draft. Will it lead to a better offense? The Detroit Free Press’ Omari Sankofa II explores this question, noting that Collins is already embracing his role in preseason games. “I liked that aspect – the freedom of movement, being able to press and just attack mismatches and switches,” said Collins. “Just play real basketball. That’s what I like to do, that’s the way I like to play, too. Excited to continue to develop chemistry with the guys.”
- Bykov a great man Nick Claxton will be “for a while” because of him hamstring straincoach Tiago Splitter told members of the media, including KC Johnson of the Chicago Sports Network (Link to Twitter). Zach Collins (toe) also on the side, while Isaac Okora (undisclosed) could play against Milwaukee in Wednesday’s preseason game despite missing Tuesday’s practice. Tobe is at home sprained his knee against Memphis last week and didn’t practice either.
- The Pacers hired former Jazz, Lakers and Mavericks executive Luca Desta as director of college scouting, Mark Stein reports in his latest post by Substack. He has been the Jazz’s vice president of global scouting since September 2021.