A consequence of the Hawks' offseason moves was having to let Caris LeVert walk in free agency, signing a 2-year, $28 million deal with Detroit. While LeVert is a good player, his three-point shooting and defense will prove problematic for the Pistons.
LeVert was traded to the Hawks for De'Andre Hunter at the 2025 trade deadline. LeVert was a solid player for Atlanta, averaging 15 points off the bench with a beautiful game off the bounce.
However, Atlanta let him walk for a reason. Nickeil Alexander-Walker is an upgrade at the bench two-guard spot, and Luke Kennard provides the team with the spacing LeVert couldn't. LeVert struggles as a three-point shooter and defender, which will prove to be Detroit's Achilles heel next season.
Caris LeVert is being asked to do to much in Detroit
The Pistons presumably brought LeVert in to replace Malik Beasley after the Eastern District of New York began investigations into the dynamic former Piston for allegedly violating the league's gambling policy. LeVert is simply a different player than Beasley, though, and won't be able to replicate Beasley's success.
While a solid on-ball creator, LeVert has never been able to hit his threes consistently. This issue is mitigated if LeVert is in a bench role, where he could alleviate Atlanta's dismal backup point guard issues.
However, the Pistons have their star guard in Cade Cunningham. While LeVert has mid-range chops and is a smooth ball handler, he won't be allowed to play the role he thrives starting next to Cunningham. Without the ball in his hands or being a true threat from three, it is hard to see how LeVert fits with this Detroit squad.
LeVert's defense is especially problematic for the Pistons. As the smallest player in the starting lineup, LeVert will be forced to guard quick point guards on a nightly basis. LeVert's lateral quickness could make him an easy mismatch against many teams, which the Pistons will have to gameplan around.
LeVert is a solid player and was a great fit in Atlanta, but he's best used as a microwave bench scorer. Despite the Hawks' massive injury struggles, LeVert never cracked the starting lineup in Atlanta. Thrust into a larger role, LeVert may struggle with the increased defensive responsibility and new defensive role.