The Detroit Pistons are currently a top NBA team, holding a record of 28-10 and leading the Eastern Conference. This marks a significant improvement from their last postseason appearance in the 2018-19 season. As the season progresses, the team is not focused on the upcoming NBA Draft. However, ESPN’s latest mock draft has projected that the Pistons might select Aday Mara from Michigan with the No. 29 pick.
Pistons Consider Aday Mara in NBA Mock Draft
Aday Mara is a prominent name after transferring to Michigan from UCLA. Standing at 7 feet 3 inches and weighing 255 pounds, Mara has made a strong impact this season. He is averaging 10.1 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 2.5 blocks across 15 games, helping Michigan reach a fourth-ranked status.
Mara’s Performance at Michigan
Despite struggling with a free throw shooting percentage of 41.9%, Mara’s unique combination of size and passing ability makes him an intriguing prospect. As teams increasingly value size, Mara’s ability to excel in drop coverage and facilitate ball movement could secure him a place in the NBA.
Pistons’ Current Roster
The Pistons also feature talented players like:
- Jalen Duren: A 22-year-old center averaging 17.9 points and 10.6 rebounds.
- Isaiah Stewart: A 24-year-old averaging 10.4 points and 5.6 rebounds, recently scoring a career-high 31 points.
Other Michigan Prospects in the Mock Draft
ESPN’s mock draft highlights several players connected to Michigan, including:
- Darius Acuff: A point guard from Arkansas and former Detroit Cass Tech star, projected to Dallas Mavericks at No. 9.
- Yaxel Lendeborg: A forward currently at Michigan, expected to go to the Portland Trail Blazers at No. 11.
- Morez Johnson, Jr.: Another newcomer at Michigan, predicted to go to the Los Angeles Clippers at No. 43.
- Tarris Reed Jr.: A former Michigan player now at Connecticut, projected to the Washington Wizards at No. 60.
While the Pistons continue to focus on their current season, Aday Mara’s potential selection in the NBA Draft reflects the team’s forward-thinking strategy. As the season progresses, it remains to be seen how the draft order will develop and how it could impact the Pistons’ future.
