Inside the Article:
The Detroit Pistons, despite having the worst record last season, suffered a setback in the NBA draft lottery, falling to the fifth overall pick. However, they still have an opportunity to make a significant impact in the upcoming 2023 NBA draft. In the Detroit Free Press' latest Mock Draft, they have the Pistons taking an interesting prospect.
The Detroit Pistons were the unfortunate losers of the NBA draft lottery, dropping to the fifth pick despite finishing with the worst record in the league. Nonetheless, history has shown that valuable and franchise-changing talents have emerged from the fifth pick. The Pistons now face the challenge of identifying the player who will have the greatest impact on their team.

Key points:
- The Detroit Pistons are mocked to select G/F Cam Whitmore from Villanova with the fifth pick.
- Whitmore brings a versatile skill set and impressive physical attributes to the team.
- Several talented prospects will be available at No. 5, with options including Anthony Black, Taylor Hendricks, Ausar Thompson, and Jarace Walker.
The Big Picture: Pistons' Future Takes Shape
The mocked selection of Cam Whitmore by the Detroit Pistons at the fifth pick is an intriguing proposition for the team's future. With the right development and integration alongside rising stars Cade Cunningham and Jaden Ivey, Whitmore has the potential to become a difference-maker and elevate the team's performance.
According to the Freep, “Many around the league see [Cam Whitmore] as having one of the highest ceilings in the draft,” and that, “He's a logical fit for a team that needs a wing and an eventual difference-maker alongside Cade Cunningham and Jaden Ivey.”
Cam Whitmore By the Numbers
- Height: 6-7
- Weight: 235 pounds
- Scoring average: 12.5 points per game
- Rebounding average: 5.3 rebounds per game
- Steals average: 1.4 steals per game
- Assists average: 0.7 assists per game
- Field goal percentage: 47.8%
- Three-point percentage: 34.3% (on 4.2 attempts per game)
With impressive scoring and rebounding numbers, as well as a solid defensive presence through steals, Whitmore possesses the skills needed to contribute effectively on the court. Furthermore, his shooting percentages highlight his ability to score efficiently, an invaluable asset for any team.
The Bottom Line – Should Pistons Set Their Sights on Whitmore
In conclusion, the Detroit Pistons' potential selection of Cam Whitmore with the fifth pick in the NBA draft holds an interesting promise for the team's future. While falling from the top spot is disappointing, Whitmore brings a combination of athleticism, scoring ability, and defensive skills that make him an exciting prospect the Pistons could aim to develop.