The Detroit Pistons have officially signed former Sacramento Kings center Isaac Jones after claiming him off waivers, as reported by Shams Charania. Standing at six feet eight inches with an impressive wingspan of 7 feet 3 inches, Jones adds some versatility to the Pistons’ roster. He takes up the team’s 15th roster spot, a decision that has taken some by surprise, as many anticipated the Pistons would keep this designation open for Malik Beasley.
Jones, who is entering his second season, appeared in 40 games last season for the Kings, mostly in limited action, without making a notable impact. Despite this, his unique physical attributes could help him carve out a role as a defensive player.
The signing raises questions about the ongoing situation with Beasley. While it doesn’t necessarily imply an end to the uncertainty surrounding him, it shows the Pistons are not willing to linger indefinitely. Beasley is still navigating an NBA and federal investigation, and the Pistons cannot solely rely on his potential availability for the season.
Additionally, the Pistons are grappling with the injury status of Tobias Harris, who is currently day-to-day with a sprained ankle. The acquisition of Jones might hint at concerns regarding Harris’s recovery time, although he is not likely to play significant minutes. While Isaiah Stewart and Ron Holland have performed admirably filling in for Harris, the Pistons’ power forward position remains a depth concern.
Ultimately, while Jones’s future in Detroit may be uncertain, with the possibility of him being released as quickly as he was signed, this roster move indicates the Pistons are preparing for any eventualities as they aim to fortify their lineup. The hope is that Harris will recover quickly, minimizing the need for emergency depth. Only time will tell if this is a temporary measure or a signal of deeper issues for the team moving forward.