For the first time in Derrick Walton Jr.’s career, uncertainty also comes with familiarity. When the 26-year-old goes to work every day, he never knows when he’ll be his last. Yet, both figuratively and realistically, he’s confident in the direction he’s taking. A trip on I-75 is Walton’s way to work every day – a hike he could do blindfolded if need be.

Walton, a former Michigan Wolverine, is looking for a place he could feel at home. He’s rebounded a bit since not being drafted in 2017, with stops in Miami, Los Angeles, Lithuania, Germany and France, and a few more. Walton is your typical companion; someone who can do the job you need but who always ends up being replaceable. These guys can have long and successful careers, except they’re often always on the move to the next city, country, or contract.

Walton is in the midst of a difficult 10-day contract with the Pistons, a deal he signed after a COVID-19 outbreak recently infiltrated the franchise bubble. Walton, whose day job is as a point guard for Detroit’s G League team Motor City Cruise, has been called in to help stabilize the ship while players take NBA health and safety protocols recover.

He has limited time to make a good impression. He was lucky, after leaving Detroit in 2013 for college, to call home, finally, home.

“I tell my mom every day, since I’ve been playing I’ve always needed MapQuest,” Walton said on Saturday night after helping the Pistons outlive Spurs, 117-116, in overtime. “I jump on 75.