Kevin Huerter has agreed to return to the Detroit Pistons on a three-year, $27 million contract, sources close to the negotiations confirmed to multiple outlets. The deal, which includes a player option for the final season, marks a significant move for both the veteran sharpshooter and the Pistons, who are rebuilding under head coach Monty Williams. Huerter, a two-time NBA All-Star, left Detroit as a free agent last summer and spent the 2023-24 season with the Atlanta Hawks, where he averaged 15.8 points per game.
The Pistons, who finished the 2023-24 season with a 38-44 record, are in the midst of a rebuild but have shown signs of progress under general manager Troy Weaver. Huerter’s return adds much-needed scoring and leadership to a roster that includes young talents like Cade Cunningham and Jaden Ivey. The contract, which includes a $10 million signing bonus, is set to begin in the 2024-25 season, according to league insiders familiar with the details.
Huerter, 27, has been a reliable three-point shooter throughout his career, shooting 38.5% from beyond the arc in his time with the Pistons. His decision to return to Detroit comes after a season in Atlanta where he played a key role in the Hawks’ playoff push, averaging 15.8 points, 3.7 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game. The Pistons, who have struggled with consistency at the guard position, see Huerter as a stabilizing force as they aim to build a competitive roster.
Why the Pistons Pursued Huerter: A Perfect Fit for Detroit’s Rebuild
The Pistons have been in search of a reliable two-way guard since Huerter’s departure last summer. The team’s frontcourt, led by Cunningham and Ivey, has shown promise, but the lack of a proven veteran scorer at the guard position has been a notable weakness. Huerter’s return addresses that need while also providing leadership experience for younger players.
According to NBA.com, the Pistons had been engaged in discussions with Huerter throughout the offseason, with the final terms of the deal being finalized in recent days. The contract includes a player option for the third year, giving Huerter the flexibility to explore free agency again in 2027 if he chooses.
The $27 million deal represents a slight decrease from the $30 million he earned in his final season with the Pistons in 2022-23, but it reflects the team’s financial constraints as they continue their rebuild. The Pistons, who have been active in the draft and free agency, have prioritized building a foundation around their young core rather than pursuing expensive veteran signings.
Huerter’s Career Trajectory: From Rookie to Veteran Leader
Huerter was selected 14th overall by the Pistons in the 2019 NBA Draft after a standout college career at Maryland. He quickly established himself as a key player for Detroit, earning All-Rookie First Team honors in his debut season. Over his first four seasons with the Pistons, he averaged 14.3 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 3.0 assists per game while shooting 38.5% from three-point range.
His departure in 2023 marked the first time he left Detroit as a free agent, and his move to Atlanta was seen as a calculated risk by the Pistons, who were focused on drafting Cunningham (No. 1 overall in 2022) and Ivey (No. 10 overall in 2023). Huerter’s decision to return suggests confidence in the Pistons’ long-term vision, even as the team continues to develop its young players.
In Atlanta, Huerter played alongside Trae Young and Dejounte Murray, forming a dynamic backcourt. His experience in a playoff environment could prove valuable as the Pistons aim to return to the postseason in the near future. “Kevin is a proven winner and a leader,” said Pistons executive Troy Weaver in a statement to the team’s official website. “His return is a great addition to our roster as we continue to build for the future.”
What Happens Next: The Pistons’ Path Forward
The Pistons will officially announce Huerter’s return once the deal is finalized and cleared by the NBA. The team is expected to hold a press conference in the coming days to introduce Huerter to the media and fanbase. In the meantime, the focus will remain on integrating him into the roster and preparing for the 2024-25 season.
With Huerter back, the Pistons will have a clearer picture of their starting lineup at the guard positions. The team is also expected to make additional moves in free agency, including potential signings at the center and forward positions to complement their young core. The Pistons’ front office has indicated that they will prioritize adding depth and experience to the roster while remaining mindful of their financial constraints.
For Huerter, the decision to return to Detroit comes with both personal and professional considerations. After spending the past year in Atlanta, he has expressed his desire to be part of a winning culture and contribute to a team’s success. His return to the Pistons aligns with that goal, as the team looks to take the next step in its rebuild.
Key Takeaways: The Impact of Huerter’s Return
- Scoring Stability: Huerter’s return adds a proven scorer to a Pistons roster that has struggled with consistency at the guard position.
- Leadership Experience: As a veteran, Huerter will provide mentorship to younger players like Cunningham and Ivey.
- Three-Point Shooting: With a career 38.5% three-point shooter, Huerter will be a key offensive weapon for the Pistons.
- Financial Flexibility: The contract includes a player option for the third year, giving Huerter the chance to explore free agency again in 2027.
- Rebuilding Momentum: The Pistons are taking a step forward in their rebuild, adding experience while continuing to develop young talent.
The Pistons’ next major move will likely come in the 2024 NBA Draft, where they will have multiple picks to consider. The team is expected to focus on addressing needs at the center and forward positions, while also evaluating potential trade targets to accelerate their rebuild.
For now, the focus remains on Huerter’s return and the team’s preparations for the upcoming season. The Pistons will hold their first media day in early October, where they are expected to provide more details on the roster and offseason plans.
Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see how Huerter fits into the Pistons’ long-term vision. His return is a significant development for a team that has been patient in its rebuild, and it signals confidence in the front office’s ability to make the right moves at the right time.
Next: The Pistons are expected to hold a press conference in the coming days to officially announce Huerter’s return. Stay tuned for updates on the team’s offseason plans and the next steps in their rebuild.
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