How Tim Hardaway Jr helped bring a friend to his former franchise

Caris LeVert officially joined the Detroit Pistons this summer, signing a 2-year contract worth $29 million. Behind this signing lies a great story of player solidarity, involving Tim Hardaway Jr, who has since moved to the Denver Nuggets.

Tim Hardaway Jr, the silent architect of the transfer

Tim Hardaway Jr left Detroit to join the Nuggets hoping to win his first ring, after his unsuccessful attempt with Dallas in 2024. But the former Maverick didn’t forget his recent team and actively worked to facilitate his replacement’s arrival.

During a press conference organized by the Motor City franchise, Caris LeVert revealed the details of this decisive intervention: « I talked to Tim the morning I signed. We had a FaceTime call. He praised the people in Detroit, the quality of the organization, the players, and completely reassured me. He clearly helped me make my decision. »

Promising reunions in Detroit

For LeVert, who will join his fifth franchise in ten years after the Nets, Pacers, Cavs and Hawks, Detroit also represents an opportunity to reunite with familiar faces. The guard will reconnect with coach J.B. Bickerstaff, whom he worked with during his time in Cleveland, and Trajan Langdon, current Detroit GM who also spent time in Brooklyn.

But it’s the reunion with Duncan Robinson that excites LeVert the most. The two have known each other since 2014 and played together at Michigan. « Duncan is practically family. We’ve known each other since 2014. We played together at Michigan and have stayed close since […]. I can’t wait to play alongside him, » shared the player.

LeVert also praised his former teammate’s exceptional journey: « His career is incredible. Especially knowing that he started in NCAA Division III before joining Michigan and then managing to find his place with the Miami Heat. His story is unique. » Robinson, who went undrafted after college, has indeed reached the NBA Finals twice with Miami.

LeVert’s arrival aligns with the Pistons‘ project, Eastern Conference semifinalists last season, who are looking to maintain their momentum despite some significant departures.