Pistons Draft Chaz Lanier, Jerry West Award Winner

The Detroit Pistons selected Tennessee guard Chaz Lanier with the 37th overall pick in the second round of the 2025 NBA Draft. Lanier, who transferred from North Florida to Tennessee for his final college season, won the Jerry West Award as the nation's top shooting guard and set a program record with 123 made three-pointers while shooting over 40% from deep. Pistons president Trajan Langdon praised Lanier's high character and work ethic, noting his fit for the roster regardless of free agency outcomes for Malik Beasley and Tim Hardaway Jr. Analysts compared Lanier's scoring and shot-making to Malik Beasley and cited his age and limited playmaking as reasons for his second-round selection. The pick is seen as a value addition that matches Detroit's needs and culture, with Lanier's readiness expected to help immediately if roster gaps emerge. This move continues the Pistons' momentum following a 30-win improvement last season.