Andre Drummond, arguably the best rebounder in the NBA, might leave Detroit Pistons pretty soon. It appears that the franchise from Michigan seeks a partner for a big deal, which would include the center as the pivotal part of it.
Atlanta First in Line
The Hawks believe that they can be a perfect environment for Drummond to continue his growth. Although he is only 26, the Pistons’ current center has vast experience behind him and is considered one of the most reliable big fellas in the league.
He isn’t that dominant on the offensive side of the court but is a commanding force on the glass on both ends, and is among the top five defensive centers in the league. Drummond’s arrival would be more than excellent for the Hawks, who are a bit problematic in defense and tend to allow lots of points from and around the paint.
As many believe, the offer for him would be a 2020 first-round pick and a salary cap relief, possibly with an addition of one other name.
Drummond has a $28 million player option for the next season, and he isn’t willing to stay in Motor City anymore, which is why the Pistons have to react now and get at least something for him.
Boston, Toronto, and Dallas Also in Combination
The three teams are allegedly also interested in having this guy on their respective rosters. Boston always wants a good rim protector and a guy who will is able to tighten up things on defense. After Al Horford and Aron Baynes left, a big hole was left under the Celtics’ rim, and it appears that Drummond might be the perfect guy for filling it.
As for Toronto, Nick Nurse has to change the entire philosophy of play after Kawhi’s and Danny Green’s departure, meaning that the now has new priorities. Drummond, as one of the toughest defenders in the league and Serge Ibaka, would present a terrifying challenge for any frontcourt in the league. It is expected to see Marc Gasol leaving in the opposite direction if Toronto and Detroit make a deal, mostly due to a salary cap situation.
Dallas wants to become a contender, and they want to do it already now. The Mavs would have a push this season and see the capabilities of the team, and if there are some prospects for significant results with AD on board, he will stay. If not, they would allow him to leave. Therefore, Dallas is more than willing to risk and test the entire situation.
Drummond was the ninth overall pick from the 2012 NBA draft, chosen by the Pistons. So far, he earned the invitation for 2 All-Stars and was named All-NBA third team in 2016. Over the past four years, Drummond was the best rebounder in the league three times, indicating that he might become one of the best ever.
Throughout his career, he averages 14.1 points and 13.7 boards, with 1.6 blocks and 1.3 steals. In 2019, AD set his best numbers so far, 17.3 points and 15.6 rebounds in just 33.5 minutes on the court.
