by Charlie O. Mallonee

Power forward Josh Smith has been waived by the Detroit Pistons and the Sacramento Kings might be interested in making him an offer. Over the summer rumors persisted that the Kings and Pistons were trying to work out a trade that would have sent the 6-foot-9 Smith to Sacramento.

“Our team has not performed the way we had expected throughout the first third of the season and adjustments need to be made in terms of our focus and direction,” said Stan Van Gundy, Head Coach and President of Basketball Operations for the Detroit Pistons.  “We are shifting priorities to aggressively develop our younger players while also expanding the roles of other players in the current rotation to improve performance and build for our future.  As we expand certain roles, others will be reduced.  In fairness to Josh, being a highly versatile 10-year veteran in this league, we feel it’s best to give him his freedom to move forward.  We have full respect for Josh as a player and a person.”

It is no secret that the Kings have been looking to upgrade their roster at the power forward position. The Kings have been the subject of trade rumors that would have Brooklyn power forward/center Mason Plumlee heading to Sacramento with point guard Deron Williams. That deal is currently in limbo because the Nets are reluctant to let go of Plumlee.

Smith is 10-year veteran who has averaged 13.1 points, 7.2 rebounds and 4.7 assists per game for Detroit. He has a 39.1 field goal percentage to go with a subpar 46.8 free throw percentage. Smith comes with questions about his willingness to be a team player. Rumors persist that Smith was a disruptive force for the Pistons.

The Kings currently have Jason Thompson starting at power forward with Derrick Williams coming off the bench with the second unit. Thompson is a consistent but not flashy performer while Williams has flashes of brilliance to go with inconsistent performances at the “four spot”. The Kings have been interested moving Thompson and his contract for some time. Thompson was signed to his current contract by former Sacramento general manager Geoff Petrie.

According to Marc Stein of ESPN, the Mavericks may also be interested in Smith’s services. Smith becomes available on Wednesday if and when he clears waivers.