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NBA free agency has slowed since a frenzy of moves yesterday. But there are still quality names on the board. One of those is gone, as free agent sharpshooter Duncan Robinson has been signed and traded to the Detroit Pistons by the Miami Heat.
As part of the sign-and trade deal, Detroit sends wing Simone Fontecchio to Miami.
This will be the replacement for Malik Beasley, who likely won’t be returning to the Detroit Pistons. There were rumors that Beasley was negotiating a three-year deal in the neighborhood of $42 million. Now, Detroit adds Robinson on a similar contract.
Robinson, 31, scored 11 points per game while shooting 39% from three on high volume. He’s still one of the best movement shooters in the league, and brings valuable spacing to a team dying for shooters. They have the personnel to insulate him defensively. I think this is a bit of an overpay for a pure shooting specialist, but it’s a need for Detroit. At this stage of the offseason, an overpay to fill a glaring need for a playoff team is good value.
From Miami’s perspective, getting something out of Robinson’s departure is a big win. They were prepared to end the last year of his contract and clear room for other wing players. This way, they get a one-year flier on Fontecchio for cheap. He’s not a game-changer, but Erik Spoelstra tends to work magic with versatile off-ball wings who don’t have elite athleticism. A nice bit of business for Miami.
