The Detroit Pistons made their biggest move of 2025 NBA free agency thus far by signing Michigan alumnus Caris LeVert to a two-year, $29 million contract. The second year is fully-guaranteed.
Free Press sports writer Omari Sankofa II reacts to the deal with immediate analysis, and grades the move for the Pistons.
Orlando Magic guard Caleb Houstan guards Atlanta Hawks guard Caris LeVert in the first quarter at Kia Center, April 15, 2025 in Orlando.
Caris LeVert signs with Pistons grade: B-
Why: With Malik Beasley in limbo and Dennis Schroder departing for the Sacramento Kings, the Pistons needed backcourt and wing depth. In LeVert, they get a little of both. The 30-year-old is a strong playmaker, particularly for his size (6-foot-6) and will take ball handling pressure off of Cade Cunningham and Jaden Ivey. He’s also a reliable scorer who can hit shots from all three levels, which will strengthen the second unit.
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The Pistons weren’t going to find a shooter as good as Beasley on the open market, but LeVert brings a very different skillset to the table. He’s only a 34.5% career outside shooter, though he did knock down 37.3% 3-pointers last season. He also doesn’t take nearly as many 3-pointers as Beasley. LeVert addresses needs, but the Pistons will have to find a different path toward addressing their spacing.
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This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Pistons free-agent grade: Caris LeVert positive addition for backcourt