3 questions the Detroit Pistons must answer before making a trade

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MADISON, NJ – AUGUST 11: Sekou Doumbouya #45 of the Detroit Pistons poses for a portrait during the 2019 NBA Rookie Photo Shoot on August 11, 2019 at the Fairleigh Dickinson University in Madison, New Jersey. 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 2019 NBAE (Photo by Jennifer Pottheiser/NBAE via Getty Images) /

2. Who is untouchable?

Stefanski and Casey may have decided the answer to the first question prior to this season, but likely not. Their only first round pick to date is Doumbouya, who turned 19 Monday, and is a developmental prospect. It’s hard to see who could have helped immediately that was still on the board with the 15th pick, aside from Brandon Clarke and a few others.

It seems as Doumbouya could be the only untouchable since the new regime has invested a first round pick in him. He could be a future star in Detroit, one of the league’s smaller markets, similar to how Giannis Antetkounmpo quietly developed in Milwaukee and Pascal Siakam in Toronto. Coincidentally, those are Doumbouya’s two most common player comparisons.

analysis. Setting realistic expectations for Sekou Doumbouya. light

Aside from Doumbouya, Kennard has been impressive in his third season. He’s elevated his scoring 6.1 more points per contest on only 3.9 more shots. His passing is noticeably better as his usage rate has climbed from 12.3% to 18.8% this season. His offensive firepower projects nicely and could be a strong fit in a sixth man role.

He impressed Casey in the playoff series against the Bucks and his improvements are impressive in his third year but how much more can his role expand, especially on a contending team? His value could be the highest on the team with his scoring and playmaking abilities that could factor for a team that needs a floor-spacer.

player comp. How Luke Kennard stacks up with JJ Redick and Kyle Korver. light

Then there’s Brown, who likely isn’t untouchable but is an intriguing piece for Detroit. He started 56 games as a rookie despite having minimal offensive upside. His defense is unquestionably good and his offense is improving. He’s shooting 34% on 3-pointers, an increase from 25.8%, and he’s strong at driving. His assist rate has spiked from 8.8% to 19.7%.

Shifting gears, let’s take a look at who else could stick around or leave Detroit.

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