The Detroit Pistons have made a significant move early in the NBA free agency period by signing veteran guard Caris LeVert to a two-year, $29 million contract, sources confirmed to ESPN's Shams Charania. This acquisition marks the team's first major addition since free agency began, signaling Detroit's intent to bolster its roster with experienced talent as they aim to build on last season's playoff appearance.
LeVert, 30, brings nine seasons of NBA experience and a wealth of versatility to the Pistons’ backcourt. Over his career, he has played for the Brooklyn Nets, Indiana Pacers, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Atlanta Hawks. Last season, he split time between the Cavaliers and Hawks, averaging 12.1 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 3.4 assists per game while shooting an efficient 46.7% from the field and 37.3% from beyond the arc.
His journey to Detroit comes amid uncertainty surrounding fellow Pistons guard Malik Beasley, who is currently under investigation by the U.S. District Attorney’s office for alleged involvement in gambling related to NBA games and prop bets. This development has cast doubt on Beasley’s future with the team, prompting Detroit to seek a reliable scorer and playmaker to fill potential gaps.
Caris LeVert's signing not only strengthens the Pistons’ roster but also reunites him with head coach JB Bickerstaff, with whom he has a prior working relationship. LeVert’s veteran presence and ability to contribute both as a starter or off the bench makes him a valuable asset for a young Pistons squad eager to compete for a higher playoff seed next season.
LeVert’s collegiate career at the University of Michigan adds an extra layer of excitement for Pistons fans, especially those familiar with the Wolverines’ basketball program. A native of Columbus, Ohio, LeVert was a standout player for Michigan, appearing in 103 career games and helping lead the team to multiple NCAA Tournament runs, including back-to-back Elite Eight appearances in 2013 and 2014 and a memorable Final Four and national championship game in 2013.
Throughout his time with the Wolverines, LeVert earned numerous accolades, including All-Big Ten second-team honors in 2014, two preseason All-Big Ten selections, and recognition on the USBWA All-District V Team and NCAA Tournament All-Midwest Regional Team. He was also honored with Michigan’s Rudy Tomjanovich Most Improved Player and Steve Grote Hustle awards in 2014, underscoring his development and tenacity on the court.
One of LeVert’s collegiate highlights came on December 15, 2015, when he recorded Michigan’s fourth-ever triple-double with 13 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists against Northern Kentucky. His senior season was marked by impressive performances before a foot injury cut his campaign short, yet he still managed to average a team-best 16.5 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 4.9 assists in the first 14 games.
LeVert’s professional career has been characterized by resilience and adaptability. After being selected 20th overall in the 2016 NBA Draft by the Brooklyn Nets (via the Indiana Pacers), he played several seasons with Indiana before returning to Ohio to join the Cavaliers in 2022. Last season, he was traded mid-year to the Atlanta Hawks in exchange for De’Andre Hunter, where he averaged 15 points, four rebounds, and three assists over 26 games while shooting 48% from the field and 39% from three-point range.
The Pistons’ decision to sign LeVert comes on the heels of re-signing center/forward Paul Reed to a two-year, $11 million deal, further solidifying their roster as they prepare for the upcoming season. Meanwhile, Tim Hardaway Jr., another key player who contributed to the Pistons’ return to the playoffs last year and tied a franchise playoff record with seven three-pointers in a single game, remains an unrestricted free agent with his future in Detroit uncertain.
Detroit’s front office appears focused on blending veteran savvy with youthful talent, a strategy that helped end their playoff drought last season. LeVert’s addition provides the Pistons with a proven scorer and playmaker who can either start alongside rising star Cade Cunningham or provide a spark off the bench, potentially filling the role vacated by Beasley if the team opts not to retain him due to the ongoing investigation.
Fan reactions to the signing have been mixed but generally positive, with many appreciating the experience LeVert brings. Some fans see him as a solid replacement for Beasley, while others debate the contract’s value. Nonetheless, LeVert’s track record of consistent scoring, playmaking, and leadership makes him a welcome presence in Detroit’s locker room.
As the Pistons continue to navigate free agency, their moves reflect a clear commitment to building a competitive roster capable of making a deeper playoff run. With LeVert’s signing, Detroit gains not only a talented guard but also a player with a rich basketball pedigree and the versatility to impact games in multiple ways.
With the NBA offseason still unfolding, the Pistons’ roster may see further changes, but the addition of Caris LeVert is a strong statement of intent. His blend of experience, skill, and Michigan roots adds a compelling chapter to Detroit’s evolving team narrative as they chase future success.
