Detroit Pistons: Could Detroit make a trade for Lonzo Ball?

Detroit Pistons: Trading for Lonzo Ball

Why New Orleans Would do it

Lonzo Ball is in the final year of his contract and wants a max deal.

The problem is that he hasn’t played well enough to earn it, and probably never will in Stan Van Gundy’s offense which does not prioritize his passing.

New Orleans is just 4-7 but their starters have been excellent. If they could add some bench depth, they can probably get things turned around and still make the playoffs.

Not only do they get a career 18-point per game scorer in Rose, but get to take a chance on sharpshooter Svi Mykhailiuk, who would boost their 3-point shooting, which is second-worst in the league.

They also have a guy in Nickeil Alexander-Walker (who I was desperate to trade for before he blew up), who has played well lately and may be taking Lonzo’s spot in the starting lineup.

Lonzo Ball may not be part of the Pelicans’ long-term future, especially after they drafted another point guard in the lottery.

If they can get some bench depth without taking on extra bad money, and get a first-round pick, I can’t imagine many better offers will present themselves for a guy who hasn’t played well this season.

But would Detroit even be interested?