Marvin Bagley III arrived in Detroit just before the trade deadline and it looked like a very smart move by Troy Weaver almost immediately. The 23-year-old, former No. 2 overall pick averaged 14.6 points and 6.8 rebounds in 18 games with the Pistons and seemed to have a natural chemistry with both of Detroit's willing guards, Cade Cunningham and Killian Hayes. Bagley immediately asserted himself as a lob threat and showed that he can score in a lot of different ways while on the floor with starters or reserves.
As Detroit marches through its rebuild, Bagley feels like a piece that should be a part of it all, but there are some moving parts and some unknowns. He's currently a restricted free agent and played himself into a little bit of money during those 18 games as a Piston. Because he's so young, he still has a lot of time to develop and reach his full potential.
Because he was oft-injured and quite inconsistent with the Sacramento Kings, he's not going to be able to chase a very long contract and it's not going to be tens and tens of millions, but he's worth keeping in Detroit based on what we've seen. James L. Edwards III of The Athletic recently reported that interest between Bagley and the Pistons is mutual and that him coming back feels like the most likely outcome.
"Per sources, the Pistons want to sign Bagley to a multiyear deal," Edwards said. "They don’t just want him locked up for a season. A three-year deal is what Detroit would like to get done."
A three-year deal would be perfect for Bagley. Detroit could likely get him signed for around $20 million and might be able to work a player or team option in for the third year of the deal. Three years with an option is a good length because Bagley would still be a young player, but also wouldn't be dead weight if his injury or consistency issues resurface. If it works out, Detroit and Bagley can revisit the contract again in just two short seasons if both parties are interested.
There is a chance that other teams might get involved and drive the price up a bit, but if what Bagley has said about Detroit in the past is true, the most sense is for him to suit up in Motown.
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