Pistons talking extensions with Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Reggie Bullock
As first-round picks entering their fourth seasons, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Reggie Bullock are eligible for contract extensions before the Oct. 31 deadline.
Detroit Pistons general manager Jeff Bower said today the organization has had preliminary discussions with the camps of both players, and said talks will continue.
“We’re probably continue to take those talks a little bit further through the month and see if there’s an opportunity to reach an extension now and if we can, that will be great for both of us,” Bower said during media availability.
“If we can’t, we’ll go into next summer.”
Caldwell-Pope, 23, is a two-year starter and the team’s best defender.
There was talks during the summer it would take a commitment of $20 million per season to secure Caldwell-Pope’s signature, with escalating salaries.
Bullock, 25, played himself into potentially being a part of the Pistons’ long-term plans with a solid second half during the team's playoff push.
Bower said both players are very open to long-term commitments with the Pistons.
“We have had some discussions with the representatives and they both know the value that we have on them as far as the organization and their growth potentially down the road,” Bower said. “We’re all in agreement that it’s an atmosphere and environment they really have good thoughts about.”
The only 2013 first rounders to sign extensions so far are Portland Trail Blazers shooting guard C.J. McCollum and Milwaukee Bucks forward Giannis Antetokounmpo.
If deals aren’t consummated, Caldwell-Pope and Bullock become restricted free agents next off-season.
