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2017 NBA Draft: Instant reaction and grades from the first round

Michael Saenz|
Jun 22, 2017; Brooklyn, NY, USA; General view of the stage before the 2017 NBA Draft at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Jun 22, 2017; Brooklyn, NY, USA; General view of the stage before the 2017 NBA Draft at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
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Feb 22, 2017; Syracuse, NY, USA; Duke Blue Devils guard Luke Kennard (5) drives to the basket past Syracuse Orange guard Frank Howard (1) during the first half at the Carrier Dome. The Orange won 78-75. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 22, 2017; Syracuse, NY, USA; Duke Blue Devils guard Luke Kennard (5) drives to the basket past Syracuse Orange guard Frank Howard (1) during the first half at the Carrier Dome. The Orange won 78-75. Mandatory Credit: Rich Barnes-USA TODAY Sports

12. Detroit Pistons – Luke Kennard, G, Duke

The Detroit Pistons made the safe pick at No. 12. Instead of taking a flier on other potential non-guarantees with higher rewards, the Detroit Pistons take a chance on Luke Kennard who, if nothing else, can shoot with the best of them.

And that’s exactly what the Pistons didn’t have this past season. Kennard will be able to come in a fill a need that the Pistons have.

My biggest problem with this pick is that they passed on Donovan Mitchell, who I believe will end up being a better player than Kennard in the long run.

Grade: B-