The Detroit Pistons, at 8-2, stand alone atop the Eastern Conference. Cade Cunningham is playing at an All-NBA level. Ausar Thompson is a master of defense. Jalen Duren, despite Detroit not extending his contract, seems to be the second-best player on the team.
Next summer, the Pistons are expected to offer Duren a very lucrative contract. Clearly, his gamble paid off.
The Pistons have solid shooters even after losing Malik Beasley this summer, although adding another volume scorer to the frontcourt is a priority. Detroit has been linked to Lauri Markkanen, who seems to be a perfect fit, although a different option allows them to lean into their “Bad Boys” identity and allows for a homecoming.
GettyDETROIT, MICHIGAN – MAY 06: Jaren Jackson Jr. #13 of the Memphis Grizzlies drives to the basket against the Detroit Pistons during the third quarter at Little Caesars Arena on May 06, 2021 in Detroit, 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. (Photo by Nic Antaya/Getty Images)
Detroit Pistons Could Trade for Jaren Jackson Jr.
Jaren Jackson Jr. is a two-time All-Star and one of the best defenders in the NBA. Over the last five seasons, he has averaged 19.7 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 3.2 “stocks.” For good measure, he has shot 35.2% from deep in his career.
While Isaiah Stewart is a solid floor-spacer, especially this season, he can’t really create for himself. The Pistons could pursue and upgrade.
“I definitely think that they need a shooting big that isn’t a catch-and-shoot big like Isaiah Stewart is,” proclaimed Zena Keita on The Athletic NBA Daily podcast’s November 10th episode. “Someone who can create. I love the Jaren Jackson approach there, too.”
Detroit could add Jackson Jr. without giving up any of their stars, as long as they are willing to give the Memphis Grizzlies adequate draft capital.
Full Mock Trade Details
- Detroit Pistons receive: Jaren Jackson Jr.
- Memphis Grizzlies receive: Jaden Ivey, Tobias Harris, 2027 first-round pick, 2029 first-round pick
Despite playing high school ball in Indiana, Jackson Jr. went to Michigan State, where he was the Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year in his lone season. Returning to Michigan would be a bit of a homecoming.
Detroit Pistons Would Have NBA’s Best Frontcourt
Cunniningham is one of the best guards in the NBA, and the Pistons would have a nearly flawless roster around him.
Right now, neither Thompson nor Duren is a shooting threat. Jackson Jr. is not an elite rebounder by any means, but he and Duren would complement each other perfectly. Duren is breaking out, and he could dominate the paint while Jackson Jr. spaced the floor.
“He is imposing himself in whether it’s blocking shots, putting a seal on the rim,” Keita praised. “He is rolling with authority at the basket. He’s so big. He’s an enforcer and screener.”
A lineup of Cunningham, Thompson, Jackson Jr., Duren, and Duncan Robinson offers shooting, defense, playmaking, and rebounding. Detroit didn’t commit long-term to Ivey, either, so losing him and Harris wouldn’t hurt.
Just two years removed from losing 68 games, the Pistons have totally changed their fortunes.
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