What's next for Prince, Hamilton?
With sources close to the situation telling NBA-Draft.com that the Pistons are working out terms (veteran's minimum and years) with seven-time All-Star Tracy McGrady, it's likely Detroit will have to rid themselves of one of their long-time wings, Rip Hamilton and Tayshaun Prince. This has been no secret over the past several months, but the team has not yet found the right deal for one of their veterans.
The Pistons haven't missed the playoffs in consecutive season since 1994 and 1995, and to avoid back-to-back lottery visits, Joe Dumars will have to make some sort of move. Austin Daye really came on strong in summer league play, making it likely that Prince will be moved, especially as he enters the last year of his contract. However, David Aldridge of NBA.com said that the vet won't be dealt unless a trade is requested. Will Dumars play loyalty to Prince with his long-standing ties to the organization or will he continue to shop around in hopes of keeping his job and returning the team to postseason glory?
Prince played in just 49 games last season, after playing in all 82 games the six seasons prior, but even still, his numbers were on par with his career-averages across the board. His back problems hindered his defensive prowess as he went from one of the league's best stoppers to just an average one of opponents found it much easier to score on him. With Prince's "decline", Austin Daye's development and the proposed signing of Tracy McGrady, it makes all the sense for Detroit to continue looking for a deal to deal the wing.
By President - Corey Ruff - 8-10-10
