Pistons have Ariza, Gordon on Wishlist

The World Famous LayupDrill Rumor Mill
6/18/09

With a week to go until the NBA Draft, the Detroit Pistons are reportedly making their list and checking it twice of free agents they would like to add to their team. Rodney Stuckey seems to be a fixture for them at the point guard role, however Richard Hamilton and Teyshaun Prince both may be on the trading block. Hamilton’s shooting guard spot could be offered to Chicago’s Ben Gordon, whom it was reported Detroit is willing to offer $11 million per season to in a multiple year deal. The Bulls have stated they plan on re-signing Gordon, however how high they are willing to go up in their price remains to be seen.

Another player who will be on the Pistons radar is Trevor Ariza on the champion Los Angeles Lakers. Ariza, as previously documented, will get looks from many teams this offseason, and Pistons management was so impressed with Ariza’s improving offensive game to go along with his defensive play, he now is someone they will consider strongly. Ariza has said he would like to stay with his hometown Lakers, however the Lakers are also trying to re-sign Lamar Odom as well, and money, or the lack thereof, could play a factor.

In other news, the Memphis Commerical Appeal reports the Grizzlies are not showing their card at all regarding the number 2 pick. Those following the situation do not expect the Grizzlies to select Rubio at 2, however Memphis may look to pick Rubio for another team. Teams like the Blazers and Celtics have inquired about moving up in the draft, and while they may not pull the trigger on a deal prior to next Thursday, if Memphis selects Rubio, they then have an asset that teams may be more inclined to trade for.

The Golden State Warriors draft options seem to now not include bringing in a point guard, but that doesn’t mean they won’t be busy trying to trade some. Monta Ellis is expected to stay, however Jamal Crawford could be on the trading block if he doesn’t opt out of his current deal. Crawford, who was dealt to the Warriors from the Knicks last season, has not seen eye to eye with Golden State coach Don Nelson. It is widely expected that the Warriors will look for front court help either in the draft or via any trades, with Jordan Hill(draft) or Brandon Bass(free agent) and Shawn Marion(trade) being options.

Tagged as: Ben Gordon, brandon bass, jamal crawford, richard hamilton, ricky rubio, rodney stuckey, shawn marion, trevor ariza