ccording to James Edwards of The Athletic, there are reports suggesting that the Detroit Pistons have expressed interest in acquiring wings Jerami Grant and Cam Johnson in the upcoming free agency period. Edwards mentioned on the HoopsHype Podcast that Grant is considered one of the top targets for the Pistons, and they had planned on pursuing him as they entered the offseason. Additionally, Edwards believes that the Pistons will likely extend an offer sheet to Johnson, although the Brooklyn Nets, Johnson's current team, have the ability to match any offers since he is a restricted free agent. It is worth noting that if the Pistons are successful in signing Grant, it would result in a swift reunion, as they had previously traded him to the Portland Trail Blazers before the 2022-23 season. After stints with the Philadelphia 76ers, Oklahoma City Thunder and Denver Nuggets, Grant signed a three-year contract with the Pistons and enjoyed the two best seasons of his career to that point. In 2020-21, Grant averaged a career-high 22.3 points and 2.8 assists per game to go along with 4.6 rebounds, 2.1 made three-pointers and 1.1 blocks. He followed that up in 2021-22 with averages of 19.2 points, 4.1 rebounds, 2.4 assists, 1.9 made three-pointers and 1.0 blocks per game. The Blazers then sent multiple draft picks to Detroit in exchange for Grant in the hope of making him a second star alongside guard Damian Lillard after trading CJ McCollum to the New Orleans Pelicans a few months before. Despite the Portland Trail Blazers not making the playoffs, Jerami Grant had another impressive season, maintaining solid averages of 20.5 points, 4.5 rebounds, 2.4 assists, and 2.3 made three-pointers.As for Cam Johnson, he spent the initial four seasons of his NBA career with the Phoenix Suns. However, he was traded to the Brooklyn Nets during this season, along with Mikal Bridges and future draft picks, in exchange for the esteemed Kevin Durant, who is expected to be inducted into the Hall of Fame. Johnson, the 11th overall pick in the 2019 NBA Draft from the University of North Carolina, proved to be a valuable player for the Suns in his early years, particularly due to his shooting abilities. However, he truly excelled and showcased his full potential during the most recent season.In the 42 games he played for both the Phoenix Suns and the Brooklyn Nets, Cam Johnson achieved career-high averages in various statistical categories. He posted 15.5 points, 4.4 rebounds, 2.5 made three-pointers, 1.9 assists, and 1.2 steals per game. Johnson also demonstrated improved shooting efficiency, shooting a career-best 47.0 percent from the field and 40.4 percent from beyond the arc.James Edwards mentioned that Jerami Grant and Cam Johnson are highly sought-after players known for their three-and-D capabilities, making them valuable assets. Furthermore, both players have strong connections to the Detroit Pistons. Grant has previously played two seasons for the Pistons and reportedly holds affection for the city of Detroit. He is said to have a positive relationship with general manager Troy Weaver. On the other hand, Johnson played under Monty Williams in Phoenix, who is now the head coach of the Pistons following his tenure with the Suns.The Detroit Pistons already possess a talented and young core, including players like Cade Cunningham, Jaden Ivey, and Jalen Duren. Additionally, they hold the fifth overall pick in the upcoming 2023 NBA draft. With the potential addition of free agents of Grant's or Johnson's caliber, the Pistons could further accelerate their rebuilding process. This could position them as a rising team in the league in the years to come.
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