Even if Lindsey Hunter opted against retirement to play another year (he's still on the fence, last I heard), the Pistons would still need an upgrade at the backup point guard spot -- Hunter was more of a defensive energy guy than a reliable ball-handler off the bench. There's some speculation that the Pistons may attempt to address this need via the draft, which takes place on June 28th. As such, the Pistons invited several point guard prospects to work out in Auburn Hills on Thursday. Krista Jahnke of the Detroit Free Press reports:
The group: Jose Juan Barea, a 6-footer from Northeastern known for his playmaking and ball control; Mustafa Shakur, another solid decision maker, from Arizona; Dwayne Mitchell, a 6-5 guard from Louisiana-Lafayette; Will Blalock, a 6-foot junior with good court vision from Iowa State; and Walker Russell, a Rochester High product who played at Jacksonville State.
President of basketball operations Joe Dumars said it was a good workout all around. But don't read too much into the fact the group included only point guards.
This week, small forwards and power forwards will come to Auburn Hills.
It's true the Pistons have only the last pick in the draft, but if you believe internet rumors, there's a chance they could swing a deal to move up higher in the second round.
Open house for point guard prospects [Detroit Free Press]