This offseason is extremely pivotal for the Detroit Pistons. With the 2024 NBA Draft around the corner, there is so much uncertainty about how they will move. After a disappointing 14-68 finish last season, the Pistons must make sure they walk away from the draft as winners.

Detroit has a new leader in their front office after hiring Trajan Langdon as their President of Basketball Operations. During his introductory presser, Langdon emphasized the necessity of adding the right pieces during the draft.

Langdon also acknowledged the importance of not rushing the Pistons' development. Considering the historic struggles of Detroit throughout the Troy Weaver era, this franchise lies in a compromising position. While patience has value for a young core, the Pistons cannot afford much time to remain one of the worst teams in the NBA. Their timeline and current roster layout indicate their options during the draft are wide open.

Will the Pistons stay with the fifth pick?

The Pistons landed the fifth pick in the draft for the third straight season despite finishing with the league's worst record. Langdon has the opportunity to construct the roster how he envisions it. That plan could include Detroit sticking with their selection and acquiring the best player on their board.

There should be some fitting prospects available for the Pistons to choose from once they hit the clock. Langdon stated he was looking to add shooting to the roster and some players could solve for that. Detroit finished towards the bottom in three-point efficiency last season ranking 25th in the NBA.

Kentucky combo guard Reed Sheppard has been a popular choice on plenty of mocks to help boost the Pistons. Sheppard has elite shooting upside on the ball and off the ball. He also has impressive defensive instincts for a 6-3 guard that should translate to the pro level.

Detroit will likely stay in the market for a difference-maker on the perimeter to help their wing depth. That could leave some interest for Colorado forward Cody Williams who has the mold of a three-and-D contributor. G League standout forward Ron Holland may also draw attention with his explosive play style on both sides of the floor.

Possible trade movement for Pistons

Plenty of teams may look to be aggressive to move in the draft, including the Pistons. Langdon expressed how he was willing to take on contracts from veteran players from other teams and assets. That could involve a trade package including that No. 5 draft pick.

There could be a chance that the Pistons try to move up for a prospect they are fond of. Forward Matas Buzelis has been a popular name mentioned that teams could trade up for. His shot creation upside is off the chart and could flourish as he grows with a young team like Detroit.

The Pistons could make a bold leap by offering one of their core players as a piece to the trade. While the young core featuring Cade Cunningham, Jaden Ivey, Jalen Duren, and Ausar Thompson holds promise, they could become expendable if the right deal is available.

Langdon stated a desire to surround franchise point guard Cade Cunningham with the proper support to help his growth. Detroit's path to winning and the development of Cunningham may have to start with a stunning trade to acquire proven players.

Acquiring assets is also a priority on Langdon's agenda. The Pistons could step in as an additional team in a multi-team trade to absorb draft assets or expiring contracts to maneuver.