Tobias Harris has been one of the best under-the-radar stories of the NBA Playoffs. During an up-and-down first-round series for the Detroit Pistons, Harris was one of the few constants, giving the team stability night in and night out. Embracing his role as the experienced veteran on the team, Harris has emerged as a highly impactful player for the Pistons.
The upward trend has continued into the second round. The 33-year-old forward has scored at least 20 points in seven straight games. In Game 2 against the Cavaliers, Harris was the second-best Piston after Cade Cunningham once again, delivering two-way impact and finishing with 21 points, seven rebounds, two steals, and two blocks on 9/16 shooting in 37 minutes of action. This was the fifth straight game in which the Pistons significantly outscored their opponents in Tobias Harris' minutes.
Pistons are fortunate to have Tobias Harris
Every time the Pistons are in trouble offensively, they rely on Harris as their release valve. They give the ball to Harris on the wing or in the post and let him go to work. He has consistently been able to create good looks for himself or get to the free-throw line.
Perhaps the most impressive part of his game has come on the defensive side of the ball. Harris spends most of his time guarding Evan Mobley. This is forcing him to play bigger than he is used to. Yet, he has done a remarkable job battling on the inside and playing like a big man.
This type of two-way contribution while averaging 36 minutes per game in the playoffs is rare to find.
That is why the Pistons have to do everything they can to keep Harris in Detroit this offseason. The veteran forward will become a free agent this summer once the two-year, $52 million deal he signed expires.
Detroit doesn't have a way to internally replace Harris. He is the only traditional power forward on the team and has stepped up admirably in his role. While most of the attention has been given to Jalen Duren's free agency and Ausar Thompson's extension negotiation, it's equally important for the Pistons to find a way to re-sign Harris for the next few years.
Harris has been scrutinized endlessly in his Philadelphia 76ers tenure. He was unfairly made the scapegoat as the team failed to meet expectations in the playoffs due to injuries and the underperformance of its stars. Now, Harris is proving that he was never the problem in Philly. In the right role, he can thrive, and Pistons fans love seeing it.
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