The New York Knicks off-loaded former Kentucky Wildcat Nerlens Noels’ contract to the Detroit Pistons last summer. Since the trade he has played sparingly with the team. So, before this recent deadline, Noel and the Pistons agreed to a buyout. Any player receiving a buyout must do so before the March 1st deadline in order to maintain their eligibility for playing in the playoffs for another team. The Pistons were able to get a deal done with him and let him go before the March 1st deadline.
Noel, the former rim protector for the Kentucky Wildcats, spent the last two season with the Knicks. He played key rotation minutes but was dealt to the Pistons in a move last summer in order to make more cap room for Jalen Brunson.
Noel saw limited playing time with the Pistons so far this season and was looking for a fresh start. Plus, the Pistons have a front court that needs more playing time and experience on the court to develop. The Pistons are stacked with front court talent with James Wiseman and Marvin Bailey along with Jalen Duran and Isaiah Stewart.
There are no shortage of teams that can use an elite defender like Noel. The Denver Nuggets could use a backup to give Jokic some rest. Also, the Sixers, his former team, are in a similar situation with needing a strong backup to Embid.
Nerlens Noel still has a lot of gas in the tank but at this point in his career he is likely relegated to backup minutes on any contender. He should be able to find a team that he fits in with and contribute.
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