AUBURN HILLS, MI - MARCH 21: Andre Drummond #0 of the Detroit Pistons shoots a free throw against the Chicago Bulls on March 21, 2015 at the Palace of Auburn Hills in Auburn Hills, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2015 NBAE (Photo by B. Sevald/Einstein/NBAE via Getty Images)B. Sevald/Einstein/Getty Images

Andre Drummond: Latest Contract News, Rumors, Speculation on Pistons Center

Timothy RappJun 29, 2015

Andre Drummond has established himself as one of the best young centers in the NBA. Now, it appears he wants that reflected in a contract extension, per reports.

Continue for updates.

TOP NEWS

Drummond Seeking Extension This Summer

Monday, June 29

According to Vincent Ellis of the Detroit Free Press, Drummond is looking to sign an extension this summer rather than waiting for his deal to run out:

It's an interesting situation. If Drummond waits, he could perhaps earn a bigger contract next season when the league's new television contract inflates the salary cap. That's the approach many players are taking this summer, and the Pistons would then have more salary-cap room to work with as well.

On the other hand, Drummond may be considering that a freak injury in the next season could hurt him in contract negotiations this year. The appeal of inking a long-term deal now may simply give him peace of mind.

He certainly seems motivated heading into the season, as he told Ellis:

"
I just have the mind-set right now that I don't think has been there before. I told myself this is a big summer for me. Obviously, everybody knows it's my contract year, but it's not even because of that. I'm just so tired of losing that it comes down to me and what I'm doing on the floor and that if I'm not in the best condition, the best playing shape, I can't do nothing for my team.
"

Drummond, 21, already averaged 13.8 points, 13.5 rebounds and 1.9 blocks per game last season, so it's scary to think of what he might do with even more focus and motivation this summer.

One thing is for certain: The Pistons will want him to be playing in Detroit for many years to come. If that means signing him to an extension this summer, expect them to do so.