Wisconsin's Kaminsky or Dekker could fit with Pistons

Chicago — With the NBA draft combine winding down Friday, the Pistons got a closer look at some of the players who could be available on June 25.

With a lottery pick (likely No. 8 overall) and the No. 38 pick, the Pistons are looking to fill a spot in the starting lineup at one of the forward positions and maybe build depth with a big man.

Pistons president/coach Stan Van Gundy and general manager Jeff Bower were on hand at the Quest Multisport Complex for the second day of workouts and scrimmages, but won't have a clear sense of what they can get until Tuesday's draft lottery.

Currently slotted at No. 8, the Pistons could rise into the top three if they win the lottery or fall back if teams with a better record move up.

"We can make assumptions and part of the actual draft process is trying to figure out plans for other teams and what their needs may be versus available players in the draft," Bower said.

"As you try to slot it out, you do make educated guesses on what a team need or interest may be based on the workouts and the information flow of interest around the prospects.

"We'll try to have a handle on it because it's good to know what other people will like. Normally more than one team likes the same player and you try to have yourself positioned to get that player or a group of players that you're very comfortable with."

Many mock drafts have the Pistons selecting Arizona wing Stanley Johnson, but they could be in the range to get either Wisconsin player, Frank Kaminsky or Sam Dekker.

Kaminsky, who measured just under 7-feet without shoes at the combine, could be an intriguing selection, possibly replacing Greg Monroe should he decide to leave via free agency.

"I can play a complementary role on their team," Kaminsky said.

"I know they have Greg Monroe and they were talking about their big guys and their future and what they want to accomplish."

Kaminsky is likely to be around if the Pistons stay around No. 8, and with his versatile skill-set, he's looking to contribute immediately.

"With where I hope to get drafted, I don't ever want to be considered a backup player," he said. "I look at myself as more of a (power forward), at least initially in my NBA career. We'll see what happens after that, but right now, I feel like I can play the 4.

As for Dekker, he can play multiple positions, and his athleticism and versatility showed during Wisconsin's NCAA Tournament run.

Bower said the Pistons value versatility but also are looking for players with a specific strength that can help the team immediately.

"That's usually the quickest way for a young player or rookie to make an impact and get himself into a competitive situation, by having that strength he can rely on and a coach can get that from him," Bower said.

"Versatility is very valuable but you have to have a strength to call on."

Dekker, who measured just under 6-8 (without shoes) at the combine, could play either forward position and brings a good mix of outside shooting and inside presence.

"I bring versatility and a competitive drive," Dekker said. "Offensively and defensively, I'll be a good addition to any team and I'm looking forward to what's in store."

As a junior, Dekker averaged 13.9 points and 5.5 rebounds and showed 3-point range.

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