Pistons Legend Compares Chaz Lanier to 2-Time NBA All-Star

The Detroit Pistons enter the upcoming season with only one new draft addition: Chaz Lanier, selected in the early second round. This occurred after the team lost its first-round pick to the Minnesota Timberwolves due to playoff outcomes and the loss of draft pick protection.

The Pistons' interest in Lanier was widely known prior to the draft, as the high-volume three-point shooter from Tennessee was viewed as a logical fit for the team. They ultimately chose him with their sole pick, earning approval from franchise legend Isiah Thomas. Thomas publicly compared Lanier to former NBA All-Star Allan Houston, specifically praising Lanier's shooting style during a Summer League broadcast, noting similarities in their smooth strokes and even pointing out that Lanier wears Houston's former number 20.

Allan Houston, also a Tennessee standout, was drafted by the Pistons in 1993 and played his first three NBA seasons in Detroit before signing with the New York Knicks, where he spent nine seasons. Houston averaged 17 points per game with 40% three-point shooting across 839 regular-season games and 19 points with 42% three-point shooting in playoff appearances.

While acknowledging Lanier has significant development ahead to reach Houston's two-time All-Star level, Thomas's comparison is considered solid, especially within the Detroit context. Lanier transferred to Tennessee after four seasons at North Florida, averaging 18 points per game and shooting 40% from three-point range in 38 games during his final collegiate season.