Detroit Pistons center Tolu Smith has switched to shooting free throws left-handed this offseason, a tactical change he plans to carry into the 2026-27 campaign. The adjustment comes as Smith prepares for a potential increase in playing time, with the Pistons opening training camp while All-Star center Jalen Duren remains unsigned. Duren has until 11:59 pm tonight to accept his qualifying offer, a deadline that has forced the team to adjust early camp plans. Paul Reed is currently taking first-team center reps, with Smith and rookie Ugonna Onyenso in the mix behind him.
Smith made the switch after conversations with the coaching staff, including Freddie V. He explained the logic is simple: he is naturally left-handed. "I write with my left hand, throw the football with my left, so it was just a matter of time I think," Smith said after a recent practice. He shot 66.7% on limited attempts for the Pistons last season and 60% for the Motor City Cruise in the G League. Comfort at the line is vital for any NBA player, and Smith believes the new routine is working. He intends to stick with it through the rigorous 82-game schedule ahead.
The team's frontcourt has undergone changes. Detroit traded Isaiah Stewart to Memphis for future draft picks this summer, promoting Paul Reed to the primary backup role. They also drafted rim-protector Ugonna Onyenso from Virginia, though he is seen as a developmental project. This places Tolu Smith squarely in the competition for rotational minutes. He appeared in 15 NBA games last season, with a standout performance on January 15 against the Los Angeles Clippers. In that game, Smith posted 9 points, 14 rebounds, and 4 blocks in a season-high 26 minutes, flashing his potential as a physical presence.
Smith's most consistent action came with the Motor City Cruise last year. In 15 G League games, he averaged a double-double with 19.4 points, 11.2 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks. That production proves he can perform at a high level when given consistent opportunity. Smith has spent the offseason working hard, paying attention to veterans like Paul Reed for guidance. Regardless of how the Jalen Duren situation resolves, minutes are available in the Pistons' frontcourt. Smith will need to outperform Onyenso to secure them. The team is looking to build after a tough end to last season, which saw them finish with a 1-4 record in their final five games, including a 94-125 loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers on May 18, 2026. Fans can track the team's progress and upcoming schedule on our schedule page.
The unresolved contract with Jalen Duren is the most immediate business for the front office. His decision will directly impact the roles of Reed, Smith, and Onyenso. The team's recent results, a 1W-4L stretch to end the prior season, show the need for reliable contributions from every player on the roster. Smith's free throw adjustment is a small but specific example of the work being done to improve. His development, along with the integration of new pieces, will be a storyline to follow as the Pistons aim to climb the standings. Smith is focused on being ready. He knows more will be asked of him this year, and his new left-handed routine from the charity stripe could be a key part of his expanded role.
