Former First-Rounder Finds A New Home Hours After Being Waived

He simply couldn't find a role in the crowded Orlando Magic backcourt, so now former first-round draft pick R.J. Hampton, after being waived, is planning to sign on with a team that could definitely use his potential at the guard spot this season.

After clearing waivers, guard R.J. Hampton plans to sign with the Detroit Pistons, sources tell ESPN. Hampton, the 24th overall pick in 2020, averaged 5.7 points in 13.9 minutes for the Magic this season.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@wojespn) February 21, 2023

According to NBA Insider Adrian Wojnarowski, Hampton, once he clears waivers, is planning to sign with the Detroit Pistons.

Hampton was the 24th overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft, and after a promising start to his career in Orlando in 2021 (11.2 points, 5.0 rebounds over 26 games), he's seen his minutes dwindle to the point where this year, he was only seeing the court for an average of 13.9 minutes across just 26 games due to a crowded Magic backcourt.

The Pistons have been without starting point guard Cade Cunningham all season, and although Hampton certainly won't be filling Cade's shoes, adding another promising guard prospect is a nice move.

That's a good flyer for the Pistons to pick up R.J. Hampton. They've got a ton of big man prospects. Could use another guard prospect to work with for the rest of the season.
— Keith Smith (@KeithSmithNBA) February 21, 2023