Detroit Pistons: Deadline looms for Saddiq Bey trade

Saddiq Bey #41 of the Detroit Pistons (Photo by Dustin Satloff/Getty Images)
Saddiq Bey #41 of the Detroit Pistons (Photo by Dustin Satloff/Getty Images)

The Detroit Pistons, Atlanta Hawks, Portland Trail Blazers and Golden State Warriors are learning a lesson about the dangers of procrastination.

The four teams pulled of a trade in the last minutes of the trade deadline that ended up sending Saddiq Bey to the Hawks, Kevin Knox and picks to the Trail Blazers, Gary Payton II to the Warriors and James Wiseman to the Pistons.

Initial reactions from the Pistons’ fanbase were all over the place, ranging from optimism about Wiseman to calling for Troy Weaver’s job.

But all of that hoopla may have been in vain after it was revealed that Payton II had an injury that may keep him out for the rest of the season. Just as Pistons’ fans were getting used to the idea of James Wiseman next to Jalen Duren, it was revealed that Saddiq Bey could be returning to Detroit.

Detroit Pistons: Saddiq Bey trade can still be voided

Whether this trade happens is now solely up to the Golden State Warriors, who have until 9:30 PM ET tonight to decided whether Payton’s failed physical is enough to warrant voiding the trade:

We’ve already spotted Saddiq Bey practicing with his proposed new teammates in Atlanta, and Payton III was seen at the most recent Warriors’ game, so it appears the players at least think this deal is going to happen.

Golden State will end up saving tens of millions in luxury taxes by completing the deal, so may have some motivation to do it even if they aren’t getting a player who can help this this season.

As for the Pistons, it would be weird for Bey to come back at this point, as the team revealed there was some ongoing friction over his role. I’m sure everyone would be professional and say the right things, but players are human beings who will obviously be affected by reading negative statements in the press.

For some fans, this trade being voided would be good news, as they didn’t think Wiseman was worth giving up on Bey, who has been the more productive player in their respective careers.

We will know soon, as the Warriors have until tonight to decide the fate of four teams, four players and a whole lot of second-round picks.