The Detroit Pistons made a strategic move in the second round of the 2025 NBA Draft by selecting Chaz Lanier, a dynamic guard out of North Florida. While second-round picks often fly under the radar, Lanier’s skill set and potential make him an intriguing addition to a Pistons team looking to build a competitive roster for the future. His journey to the NBA has been anything but conventional, and his selection represents both a gamble and an opportunity for Detroit.
Lanier’s college career was a testament to perseverance and growth. After starting at North Florida, he steadily developed into one of the most efficient scorers in college basketball. His ability to shoot from deep, create his own shot, and play with a high basketball IQ made him a standout in the Atlantic Sun Conference. Though he didn’t attend a high-major program, his performances against tougher competition in non-conference play proved he could hold his own against NBA-caliber talent. His senior year was particularly impressive, as he averaged over 18 points per game while shooting above 40% from three-point range—a skill that immediately translates to the modern NBA.
For the Pistons, Lanier fills a critical need as a floor-spacing guard who can contribute off the bench. Detroit has been searching for reliable shooters to complement their young core of Cade Cunningham, Jaden Ivey, and Ausar Thompson. Lanier’s ability to knock down shots off the catch or off the dribble makes him a valuable asset in today’s pace-and-space league. His quick release and deep range allow him to stretch defenses, something the Pistons have lacked in recent seasons. If he can adjust to the speed and physicality of the NBA, he could carve out a role as a rotational piece early in his career.
One of the biggest questions surrounding Lanier is his defense. At 6’4”, he has decent size for a shooting guard, but he’ll need to prove he can stay in front of quicker NBA guards and hold his own against stronger opponents. His college tape shows effort on that end, but the competition level will be a significant jump. The Pistons have emphasized defensive improvement under their current coaching staff, so Lanier will need to buy into that philosophy to earn consistent minutes. If he can become even an average defender, his offensive skills will make him a valuable piece.
Another factor working in Lanier’s favor is his maturity. As a four-year college player, he brings a level of experience and polish that many younger draft prospects lack. He understands team dynamics, knows how to prepare for games, and has already faced adversity in his career. The Pistons don’t need him to be a star, but if he can provide steady minutes, hit open shots, and play within the system, he’ll exceed expectations for a second-round pick.
The Pistons’ front office has shown a willingness to take calculated risks in the draft, and Lanier fits that mold. While he wasn’t a household name in the pre-draft process, his shooting numbers and scoring ability made him a worthwhile gamble in the second round. Detroit’s development staff will be crucial in helping him adjust to the NBA game. If they can refine his defensive instincts and continue to hone his offensive game, he could become a steal in this draft class.
Looking at the broader roster construction, Lanier’s arrival adds depth to a backcourt that needed more shooting. The Pistons have struggled with spacing in recent years, often relying too heavily on Cunningham to create offense. Lanier’s presence gives them another player who can punish defenses for sagging off, opening driving lanes for the team’s primary playmakers. In today’s NBA, you can never have enough shooters, and if Lanier proves he can defend at an acceptable level, he could find himself in the rotation sooner rather than later.
Of course, second-round success stories are never guaranteed. For every Draymond Green or Nikola Jokić, there are dozens of players who never find their footing in the league. Lanier will have to fight for every opportunity, likely starting his career in the G League with the Motor City Cruise. But the Pistons have shown they’re willing to give their young players a chance to prove themselves, and Lanier’s work ethic suggests he’ll make the most of whatever opportunities come his way.
The fan reaction to this pick has been mixed. Some see Lanier as an underrated gem who could thrive in the right system, while others question whether he has the athleticism to compete at the highest level. But second-round picks are all about upside, and Lanier’s shooting alone gives him a pathway to sticking in the league. If he can expand his playmaking or improve defensively, he could exceed even the most optimistic projections.
Ultimately, the Pistons’ selection of Chaz Lanier is a low-risk, high-reward move. He may not become a star, but if he can contribute as a reliable bench shooter, he’ll have justified his draft position. Detroit’s rebuild is still in progress, and finding role players who fit alongside their young core is essential. Lanier’s journey from a mid-major program to the NBA is a testament to his dedication, and if he continues to work, he could become a fan favorite in Detroit.
Only time will tell how this pick pans out, but for now, the Pistons have added another intriguing piece to their puzzle. Chaz Lanier’s story is just beginning, and if he can make the most of his opportunity, he might just prove to be one of the steals of the 2025 draft.
