Why Russell Westbrook would be a good fit for this rising team

There are notable NBA players who have yet to be signed to a roster. Among them is nine-time All-Star and former MVP Russell Westbrook. While Westbrook prepares for, potentially, his final season, he remains a free agent as teams are cautious of liability in consistency and production throughout an 82-game season. Westbrook looks to get more than the veteran minimum with his next team. 

One team that has an open spot that might want to consider adding Westbrook is the Detroit Pistons. The Pistons aren’t one veteran away from challenging for the top spot of the Eastern Conference. Detroit, however, has shown drastic improvement within the past few seasons. The Pistons could still utilize Westbrook this upcoming season, and Westbrook could likewise benefit the Pistons.

Pistons look to build a deep roster

The Pistons finished last season above .500 for the first time since the 2015-16 season, with a record of 44-38. In the previous five seasons, the Pistons combined for a record of 94-290. 

During that time, the Pistons have used high-value draft capital on stars including Cade Cunningham, guard Jaden Ivey and forward Ausar Thompson. They've also acquired reliable veterans in forward Tobias Harris, guard Tim Hardaway Jr. and Malik Beasley. 

One of the biggest factors that remains going into the second season under head coach J.B. Bickerstaff is a veteran leader for the team. Detroit needs another reliable ball-handler who adds a spark to the Pistons on both ends of the court. Even though he will be 37 in November, Westbrook is one of the most energized players when on the court.

In 75 regular-season games for the Denver Nuggets, Westbrook averaged 13.3 points, 6.1 assists, 4.9 rebounds and 1.4 steals per game. Westbrook provides enough of a spark in all areas of the game to help the Pistons potentially climb the rankings in a vulnerable Eastern Conference.

Why Westbrook should consider the Pistons

At this point in his career, Westbrook isn’t providing the elite production during his prime. He still plays with relentless energy, but it also makes him more prone to turning the ball over and making improper shot selections. When he is on the court, he demands control of the offense and often makes the shots himself.

Despite all of this, Westbrook remains a team player and only wants to help his team win. There was a clear difference in how the Los Angeles Lakers utilized Westbrook than how the Los Angeles Clippers and the Nuggets did. Westbrook was forced to be a floor general with the Lakers, but he was a contributor with the Clippers and Nuggets.

With the Pistons, he won’t be asked to be the floor general. He would, however, be asked to take the pressure away from Cunningham and Ivey. He could also become a locker room leader and veteran role model for the two young stars as they look to take their first steps into superstardom in the league.