Detroit Pistons: Expectations for the trade deadline
By Ethan Wolfe
Detroit Pistons: Nice to trade- Delon Wright or Mason Plumlee
Wright has had a quietly productive year. The 28-year-old has been a steady contributor in lieu of Killian Hayes’ absence, averaging 10 points, five boards, and five assists a game.
While he’s been a welcome presence in Detroit, he fits best as a second-unit stabilizer. His contract also extends into next season, too. If Wright is dealt, it wouldn’t be for anything more than expiring contracts and a 2nd-rounder.
It wouldn’t be surprising if the Pistons valued his mentorship and how his play has kept Detroit afloat. A high pick is valuable, but not as much as the reputational damage a dumpster-fire season could cause.
Wright isn’t a part of Detroit’s future — at least contractually speaking. Unless Wright is content eventually backing up Hayes, then it may be wise to move on from him while his value is highest.
Plumlee’s situation is less complicated. Like Wright and Ellington, Plumlee is a shrewd veteran who would be an above-average backup on a playoff contender. But the Pistons didn’t sign him just to deal him. Well, that was the initial plan.
His 3-year, $24 million contract was laughable in the offseason. It’s been worth every penny so far. Plumlee is playing the best basketball of his career and could help any big-needy teams like the Nets, who have reportedly shown interest in the 31-year-old.
It’s hard to envision Plumlee being nearly as productive once his contract expires after the 2023 season, when Detroit likely hopes to be contending by. His value may never be as high as it now.