The Detroit Pistons are among the teams interested in free agent point guard Brian Roberts, according to Michael Scotto of Sheridan Hoops.
Roberts would certainly fit the mold of previous Detroit Pistons signings this offseason in that they are clear backups who team president and head coach Stan Van Gundy presumably sees as fitting better with what he is trying to build in Detroit.
Roberts played for years overseas before catching on with New Orleans two years ago. He is serviceable if unspectacular. On a decimated Pelicans team last year, he was forced to start 42 games and was a reliable mid- and long-range shooter and below average passer and facilitator. With how many weapons were missing for New Orleans that should come as no surprise.
Roberts represents a slight upgrade on incumbent reserve Will Bynum, especially with a reliable shot. But signing him would likely mean, barring a Bynum trade, the release of Peyton Siva, who's contract is not guaranteed for next season.
A Bynum trade is not impossible. He's on an expiring contract that pays him just shy of $3 million. But releasing Siva is much more likely.
That would be a shame because by all accounts, Siva has worked hard to improve and build his game since being drafted late in the second round last year. In the D League and a short stint toward the end of the season, Siva showed a developing 3-point shot and has played well in the Orlando Summer League this season.
He's also five years younger than Roberts. But Roberts grew up in Toledo and played his high school ball at St. Johns. So he's got that going for him.
There is no telling how serious the interest is, whether it was recent interest or expressed earlier in the free agent season. We will bring you more if something develops.