Perimeter threat Isaiah Joeacquired by the Pistons from the Thunder this offseason, has already won a championship in his career. He’s looking forward to relaying that experience to his new teammates.
“For me personally, I can bring the experience of knowing what it takes to build throughout the regular season so that you can be successful in the postseason,” Joe told Coty Davis of the Detroit News. “Everybody here has the same goal in mind, which is always a good sign. There are no egos. We are here to achieve the same goals. I am excited about what I can bring to the team, but also the stuff I can learn from them as well.”
Detroit holds an $11.3MM option on Joe’s contract for 2027/28 with a decision looming next summer unless it signs him to an extension. Joe likes what he sees so far.
“This is a young and hungry team, which showed a lot throughout the regular season. They always found ways to win,” Joe said. “These guys are grimy. They work hard and are in the gym every night, working on their craft. We have a great system and great coaches. Everyone is together.”
Here’s more from the Central Division:
- The Pistons also added power forward John Collins in free agency and Okorie stocks via the draft. Will that translate to better offense? The Detroit Free Press’ Omari Sankofa II explores that question while noting that Collins is embracing his role already in preseason matchups. “I enjoyed that aspect – the freedom of movement, the ability to push and just attack mismatches and switches,” Collins said. “Just play real basketball. That’s something I enjoy doing, I enjoy playing that way as well. Happy to continue to develop chemistry with the guys.”
- Bulls big man Nic Claxton will be “out awhile” due to his hamstring strain, coach Tiago Splitter told media members, including K.C. Johnson of the Chicago Sports Network (Twitter link). Zach Collins (toe) is also sidelined, while Isaac Okoro (undisclosed) could play against Milwaukee in Wednesday’s preseason game despite missing Tuesday’s practice. Tobe At Home banged his knee against Memphis last week and also didn’t practice.
- The Pacers have hired former Jazz, Lakers and Mavericks executive Luca Desta as director of college scouting, Marc Stein reports in his latest Substack post. He had been the Jazz’s VP of global scouting since September 2021.