The Detroit Pistons are on a mission to improve their 3-point shooting, and they might have found a hidden gem in Chaz Lanier. While he didn't get much playing time last season, his performance in the Summer League has given the team a glimmer of hope. Lanier's ability to light up the scoreboard quickly is exactly what the Pistons need, especially with their core trio of Cade Cunningham, Jalen Duren, and Ausar Thompson.
What makes Lanier's story particularly intriguing is his shooting prowess. During his senior season at Tennessee, he established himself as a sharpshooter, connecting on 39.5% of his 3-point attempts. This ready-made skill is a rare find, and it's no wonder the Pistons believed he was NBA-ready when they drafted him. His performance in the Summer League, where he scored 25 points and knocked down five 3-pointers in the first six minutes, has only reinforced that belief.
Lanier's potential is further highlighted by his ability to provide instant offense. In a game against the Chicago Bulls, he checked in during the fourth quarter and scored eight points in the final 12 minutes, helping the Pistons take control of the game. This kind of impact is exactly what the team needs, especially with key players like Cunningham, Duren, and Tobias Harris missing due to injuries.
However, Lanier's path to the NBA is not without challenges. He's currently caught in a numbers situation, and it's unclear if he'll move up the depth chart. But his tools and college history suggest that he has the potential to reach the level of players like Isaiah Joe and Taurean Prince, who were added to the roster this offseason. Joe and Prince are among the NBA's best shooters, and their addition should help the Pistons improve their 3-point shooting percentages.
Lanier's story is a reminder that sometimes the best solutions are already on the roster. His ability to provide instant offense and his shooting prowess make him a valuable asset for the Pistons. While he has a long way to go to reach the level of Joe and Prince, his potential is undeniable. The team's focus on improving their 3-point shooting might just have been a good omen for Lanier's future with the Pistons.
