Detroit Pistons: Would this Bojan Bogdanovic trade really help?

Detroit Pistons: Bojan Bogdanovic trade to the Atlanta Hawks

Yes, John Collins has had some big seasons, but he has dropped off every year since, culminating in this one, where he is averaging just 12.3 points and 7.5 rebounds while shooting just 21 percent from 3-point range, by far the lowest of his career.

Detroit already has plenty of players who can’t shoot the 3-ball, and right now, Collins has been struggling even though he’s playing 31 minutes per night.

His defense, while certainly better than Bogdanovic’s, isn’t elite or anywhere close, though he would instantly be one of Detroit’s best shot blockers. Would his better defense and rebounds be enough to offset his lack of scoring?

Then there is that contract.

This one could go either way, as it will look like a bargain at $25-26 million if he returns to his previous levels but would look like an overpay if he stays where he is.

Detroit would be stuck with him for one year longer than they have Cade Cunningham signed, so it could be prohibitive in future moves if Collins doesn’t work out.

If it were just apples to apples right now, I don’t think this trade moves the needle for the Detroit Pistons much now or in the future, but if they believe Collins still has that other level, then this would be a good return for a guy that they only gave up Kelly Olynyk’s expiring contract to get (though KO is playing really well for Utah).

Detroit would have to be satisfied that Collins would thrive with their current roster and not be the type of mediocre complementary guy he’s been for Atlanta so far this season. It would be a roll of the dice for both teams, but it really comes down to whether Detroit and Atlanta really think this kind of swap would make a difference to their chances this season and beyond.