Detroit Pistons: 4 stars that might be traded this summer
Detroit Pistons: 4 stars that might be traded this summer
The Knicks
The New York Knicks are another team that might want to shake things up this summer but have limited options for how to do so because of their salary obligations.
Some have posited that either All-NBA third teamer Julius Randle or 22-year-old RJ Barrett could become available in a trade this offseason. Of the two, Barrett would be the better fit on the Detroit Pistons given his position and age, but it’s hard to see a trade that works.
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Barrett is not worth the #5 pick in the draft, or is he? This is a 22-year-old who just put up 20 per game (albeit on mediocre shooting splits), is a good defender and still has plenty of room to get better. He was also outstanding in the playoffs, (arguably the Knicks’ best player) showing that he can thrive on the big stage.
Barrett is under contract through 2026-27 at a pretty favorable rate that pays him up to $29 million in the final year, so any team that trades for him is investing in a player with upside.
It’s hard to see the Knicks wanting to part with either of these guys for just a draft pick since they are ready to compete for the playoffs now, but if Barrett hits the market, the Pistons should at least inquire.