2:27pm: The deal is official, the team announced via press release.
FEBRUARY 25TH, 12:01pm: Detroit is indeed signing Lucas for the rest of the season, according to Marc Stein of ESPN.com (Twitter link). His second 10-day deal expired after Tuesday night’s game. He’ll represent the 14th Piston signed through season’s end now that the team has claimed Shawne Williams off waivers.
FEBRUARY 20TH: The Pistons are highly likely to sign John Lucas III for the rest of the season after the expiration of his current 10-day contract, his second with the team this season, coach/executive Stan Van Gundy told reporters today, including Keith Langlois of Pistons.com (Twitter link). His 10-day deal, which actually runs for 13 days because it bridges the All-Star break, as I explained, is up after Tuesday.
The 32-year-old has played efficiently for the Pistons, averaging 4.8 points, 4.2 assists and 0.5 turnovers in 12.8 minutes per game spread over six appearances. The Pistons exchanged point guards Thursday, acquiring Reggie Jackson in a trade that sent out D.J. Augustin, so the team’s deadline moves don’t figure to affect Lucas’ spot on the depth chart.
Detroit is carrying the league-minimum 13 players, including Lucas and Brandon Jennings, who’s out for the season. The Pistons reportedly have an agreement to sign Quincy Miller to a 10-day contract to bolster their depth.