The Detroit Pistons have kicked off their 2025 free agency by locking in two notable deals. First, they re-signed Paul Reed to a two-year, $11 million contract. Shortly after, they agreed to a two-year, $29 million deal with former University of Michigan alumnus Caris LeVert.
These signings come as a bright spot amid a turbulent start to the offseason. Malik Beasley, once rumored to be signing a three-year, $42 million contract with Detroit, is now caught in the middle of a federal gambling investigation. Meanwhile, veteran guard Dennis Schröder—previously open to re-signing—chose the Sacramento Kings instead.
With Reed returning and LeVert bringing his scoring punch back to the state, the question now becomes: what kind of production can they deliver for a franchise looking to build on their 2024-25 momentum?
Detroit Pistons Start 2025 Free Agency With Smart, Sneaky Moves
Pistons Kick Off 2025 Free Agency by Bringing Back Paul Reed
Bringing Reed back gives the Pistons a cost-effective, high-energy big man who fits well alongside their roster construction. He is a scrappy, switchable defender who makes impact plays whenever he is on the floor. His calling cards—rebounding, hustle plays, and defensive intensity—are exactly what the Pistons need in the event of injuries.
Reed will once again serve as the emergency center behind Jalen Duren and Isaiah Stewart. He’s an efficient finisher around the rim and runs the floor well in transition. Last season, Reed averaged 4.1 points, 2.7 rebounds in 45 games for the Pistons last season.
Cruically, Reed brings playoff experience and a gritty mindset that the Pistons’ locker room can continue to benefit from. He’s not the flashiest signing, but Reed could be crucial if the Pistons truly want to have depth on their roster to stay competing.
Pistons Choose LeVert Over Beasley — And It Makes Sense
While Beasley was once linked to the Pistons on an extension, they ultimately pivoted to LeVert—and it may prove to be the smarter move. On paper, Beasley brings elite shooting. He hit nearly 41.6% of his threes last season and ranked among the league leaders in makes. But his game has clear limitations. Beasley is a specialist—his value lives and dies behind the arc. He doesn’t create for others, struggles defensively, and offers little when his shot isn’t falling.
LeVert, on the other hand, is a far more versatile piece. He can handle the ball, initiate offense in a pinch, and defend multiple positions. Last season with the Cleveland Cavaliers and Atlanta Hawks, he averaged 12.1 points, 3.4 assists, and 3.2 rebounds in 64 games, showing a willingness to adjust his role and impact games in different ways. His size, playmaking, and rim pressure address more needs for a young Pistons team building its identity of versatility.
LeVert’s contract is not only shorter but also gives the Pistons a reliable veteran who can steady the second unit or slide into the starting lineup without breaking rhythm. He’s not without flaws—consistency and health have followed him throughout his career—but the floor with LeVert is higher, and the fit is cleaner for where the Pistons are headed.
The Last Word
The Pistons’ opening moves in the 2025 free agency period may not dominate headlines, but they reflect a front office focused on fit, flexibility, and foundational growth. Re-signing Paul Reed reinforces a defensive identity and keeps a valuable, cost-controlled big in the mix. Landing Caris LeVert over Malik Beasley signals a commitment to two-way versatility and veteran stability.
For a franchise still looking to gain league-wide respect, these are smart, calculated additions—not splashy, but necessary. Whether or not they move the needle in the Eastern Conference standings remains to be seen. But if the Pistons are serious about building a winning culture, these moves show a clearer sense of direction than the team has shown since Trajan Langdon took over. The challenge now is simple: turn these pieces into continued progress.
Featured image: © Kelley L Cox-Imagn Images
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