NBA Draft: Celtics Select Marcus Sasser 25th Overall, Trade to Pistons

by

Jun 22, 2023

In a surprising turn of events, the Detroit Pistons secured Houston’s guard, Marcus Sasser, in a trade with the Boston Celtics. This move has left many basketball enthusiasts intrigued and contemplating its motivations. A highly intriguing prospect, Sasser seems destined for success in the NBA. The unexpected trade sent Sasser to the Pistons, where the offensive focus will primarily revolve around players like Cade Cunningham.

Despite the apparent mismatch between Sasser and the Pistons’ game plan, it’s worth noting that the 6-foot-1 guard possesses remarkable defensive skills. Although he may not have the same physical stature as Marcus Smart, Boston’s recently traded perimeter defender, Sasser can excel in locking down opponents, disrupting offensive flow, and reducing scoring opportunities. This defensive prowess could have perfectly complemented Boston’s needs, but now the Pistons reap the benefits.

Turning the spotlight back to Marcus Sasser as a prospect, he was a standout player for the Houston Cougars, earning the distinction of being a first-team All-American. With an impressive scoring average of 17.5 points per game, Sasser demonstrated his ability to excel as a pure scorer at the college level. Unfortunately, an injury to Sasser during the 2022 NCAA tournament hindered Houston’s chances of winning the national championship.

When contemplating Sasser’s future, ignoring his potential for a successful NBA career is hard. Many pundits would confidently bet on him exceeding the over/under line of 8.5 years in the league. He possesses the qualities of a seasoned college guard transitioning into the professional ranks, which some may have overlooked. Sasser’s productivity in college suggests that his second NBA contract will likely be lucrative, further bolstering the belief in his long-term success.

While the trade decision may have altered the odds and introduced uncertainty, it is intriguing to consider Boston’s thought process behind moving down. The Celtics’ future plans and how they intend to utilize their selections will undoubtedly be a subject of keen interest. With Cade Cunningham’s injury recovery potentially influencing his integration into the team, having additional guards like Sasser could benefit the Pistons in today’s guard-oriented NBA.

In the end, Marcus Sasser’s journey takes an unexpected turn as he finds himself in Detroit rather than Boston. However, his talent and potential remain undeniable. As the basketball world eagerly awaits the unfolding of his NBA career, it is clear that Sasser has the skills and the determination to leave a lasting impact on the league.

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Thumbnail photo via Jay Biggerstaff-USA TODAY Sports

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