The Detroit Pistons have lost their patience. The team tried to figure out their Josh Smith drama, but simply could not resulting in the release of the forward after a year with the team. Smith failed to fit in on a court with both Andre Drummond and Greg Monroe and this year was not much different. The Pistons attempted to find any market possible for the veteran in order to trade him, but decided to cut their losses making Smith available to sign with anyone now.
The Detroit Pistons announced Monday Smith was released despite still having two years and $26 million on his contract after this season. This was a move that had been building over the past year. Smith was not productive alongside Monroe and Drummond. There was hope Stan Van Gundy stepping in as head coach would help Smith, but that was not the case.
"We are shifting priorities to aggressively develop our younger players while also expanding the roles of other players in the current rotation to improve performance and build for our future," Van Gundy said in a released statement. "As we expand certain roles, others will be reduced. In fairness to Josh, being a highly versatile 10-year veteran in this league, we feel it's best to give him his freedom to move forward. We have full respect for Josh as a player and a person."
So who signs Smith as he sits on waivers? The chances someone swoops him up in the next day is slim considering his contract, but once he clears waivers, there will be a number of teams interested in acquiring the forward. According to ESPN, the Houston Rockets could show interest, but only if Smith takes less money. He would pair well in the core of Dwight Howard and James Harden as the Rockets need help to stay afloat in the highly-competitive Western Conference.
The Sacramento Kings are an option. The team attempted to trade for Smith last season, offering up several young players in return, but the Pistons did not budge. This is their chance to land him and lock up a front court with Rudy Gay and DeMarcus Cousins. The Dallas Mavericks are an option considering Smith's long friendship with Rajon Rondo. The Los Angeles Clippers might also aim to make a move in order to get roster depth.
