The 2018 NBA draft took place on June 21, 2018 on a Thursday night. It was an exciting night for basketball players, teams, and fans. As players waited to hear their names called, fans became anxious to welcome the new star to their respective teams.
Many teams acquired the player of their desires throughout the first round. However, for the Detroit Pistons, the excitement didn’t come until the second round.
With the 38th and 42nd pick of the draft, the Pistons acquired Khyri Thomas and Bruce Brown Jr. Both players fell to the second round in this years’ draft so you’d have to wonder if they will fit on the team.
Khyri Thomas and Bruce Brown Jr. are both guards, which is what the Pistons can use. Both, Khyri and Bruce played decent roles at their respective colleges. But, lets breakdown how they might be an asset to the Pistons squad.
Khyri Thomas
Khyri Thomas spent his collegiate career at Creighton. In his last season, before entering the draft, he averaged 15 points, nearly 3 assists, and 4.4 rebounds. His biggest accolade was being named the Big East defensive player of the year, twice! He shot a little over 40 percent from 3pt range during his junior season.
He plays well under pressure, he never gives up on plays. If he doesn’t perform well on offense, he’d usually show up on defense. He is also a decent playmaker. He can provide exactly what the Pistons are looking for out of their backcourt. With his efficient scoring, rebounding, and solid defense, he can add great depth to the guard position.
Bruce Brown Jr.
Bruce Brown Jr. spent two years at the University of Miami (FL.). He kept his scoring close in numbers during both seasons, averaging 11.8 points his freshman year and 11.4 points his sophomore year. Although, his shooting percentages went down from one year to another, his rebounding and distribution numbers improved. In his final season with the Hurricanes, he averaged a bit over 7 rebounds and 4 assists.
Much like his new teammate, Khyri Thomas, Bruce is also a ferocious defender. He can get numbers in steals and blocks. Ultimately, he’s a good defensive player and playmaker which is, again, what the Pistons backcourt could use. However, Bruce would need to improve his shooting game. Otherwise, he’ll fit well with this developing team.
Khyri Thomas and Bruce Brown Jr. are both young talented players. Let’s see how they develop their game as they look to fit in with the Detroit Pistons squad.
