The Detroit Pistons made a trade deadline move, sending Delon Wright to the Kings for Cory Joseph and a couple of second-round picks.
I did a full breakdown of the Delon Wright trade, which I believe the Pistons won easily.
I also looked at how the Wright trade would affect the lineup and rotation, so we’ve got you covered for trade deadline updates.
But this trade is probably not the end and could lead to future moves. First, let’s look at what the Detroit Pistons might do next.
Detroit Pistons: who will be traded next?
The next Piston to go will most likely be Wayne Ellington, who has shot well enough this year to make himself into an asset who could help a contender.
Ellington is not likely to command a big haul, but Troy Weaver can probably secure another second-round pick and maybe a project player for the veteran.
Though it is less likely, the Pistons could also move on from Mason Plumlee. Plumlee has been fantastic this year but his trade value may never be higher, so if the right deal presents itself, don’t expect Weaver to hesitate.
The rest of the Detroit Pistons are probably safe though I wouldn’t rule anything out completely, especially if Troy Weaver is looking to make a bigger deal.
Pistons: Delon Wright trade could lead to future moves
The Delon Wright trade was definitely made for the future, as Cory Joseph is not a guy who will be part of the long-term plans.
The Pistons cleared around $6 million in cap space for next season and also grabbed two second-round picks, both of which could be factors in future moves.
If the Pistons wanted to take a chance on someone like Norman Powell for example, having that extra cap space and draft capital could come in handy, as they can absorb some of his future salary and have more ammo to make the trade.
The Pistons could also trade for a restricted free agent, someone like Josh Hart for example, who they can then re-sign using some of the money they saved on the Wright trade.
The Pistons could even get involved in a trade as third team, helping to facilitate the trade by absorbing a bad contract in exchange for a future asset.
This move is not about Cory Joseph, it is about the future and the Detroit Pistons now have a lot more flexibility to make moves.
Thank you for your service, Delon Wright and well done, Troy Weaver!