Since joining the Detroit Pistons, Marvin Bagley has looked solid. The former No. 2 overall pick was dealt at the trade deadline, giving him a fresh start in a new situation.
Bagley has averaged 11.5 points and 5.5 rebounds while shooting 51.3% in four games with the Pistons. Sometimes, a clean slate is important for a young player in getting their career back on track.
The 6-foot-11 forward was recently asked about the trade itself and what it felt like to get that fresh start.
“I felt like a weight was taken off my back,” Bagley told The Athletic. “I felt like I could have fun playing basketball. Being in a new environment, new facility, new teammates, new faces, I think that’s what I needed. To finally get that, I’m going to make the most of the opportunity.”
It’s not a guarantee that Bagley ever becomes a star at the NBA level like he was projected to be coming out of college. Being the second overall pick comes with high expectations, but now that he’s no longer with the team that selected him that high, perhaps the expectations and pressure can be re-aligned.
