A trade deadline wish list for the Detroit Pistons

Finding a trade partner for Drummond

The first thing on the trade deadline itinerary for Detroit has been to find a suitable landing spot for Drummond. This has garnered interest from multiple teams, however some have backed out in recent weeks.

There are several issues that come with trading the former All-Star. First of all, Drummond has a player option for the 2020-2021 season worth $28 million. The issue is that unless the team acquiring him receives confirmation that he’ll either opt-in or agree to re-sign, it’s too much of a gamble.

Unloading assets for a potential three month rental isn’t exactly the most enticing prospect.

Secondly, the Pistons are reportedly seeking a first round pick in exchange for the big man, which they have not yet been offered. They’re also seeking a young prospect that they can develop and utilize as a part of their future.

It has inevitably become a matter of which side will budge first. Will the Pistons wind up lowering their asking price in order to get something in return for Drummond? Letting him walk in free agency for absolutely nothing would be cataclysmic. Reminiscent of how Charlotte handled Kemba Walker‘s situation.

Or will a team finally give in and unload whatever they need to in order to land Drummond’s services? It seems unlikely given the circumstances, but there could be a team who ends up desperately needing extra rebounding and rim protection.

In an ideal world, Detroit will acquire the aforementioned assets of a first round draft pick and some young talent. In a realistic world, expect that maybe one of those comes to fruition.

Don’t be surprised if the Pistons end up accepting two second round picks instead. They’ll also undoubtedly get a bad contract in return in order to match salaries.

There’s certainly a reality where nothing happens at all, and Drummond remains a Piston for the remainder of the season.