Most people would identify depth at power forward as the Detroit Pistons’ biggest need and PJ Washington was named in speculation as a possibility for that role.
It makes sense, as he is entering the final year of his contract on a team (Dallas) that just selected Cooper Flagg at his position and has a lot of money tied up in big men already.
Washington is a fit as a tough defender who can cover both spots, spread the floor, and give the Pistons some much-needed 3-point shooting and depth at two positions.
There was even speculation among pundits that the Pistons could trade Jaden Ivey to the Mavs at the trade deadline, though that seems a bit of an overpay for a role player, even one as good as Washington.
But those plans will likely have to be put on hold according to insider Marc Stein (subscription) who thinks Washington’s extension with Dallas is all but a done deal:
“...the next notable on-deck signee could well be the Mavericks' P.J. Washington, who becomes eligible Friday for a new four-year deal just shy of $90 million. League sources tell The Stein Line that an extension for Washington is likely.”
If Washington were to get a four-year extension, he would be ineligible to be traded before the February trade deadline, which would all but ensure he’s not coming to Detroit next season.
If Washington is out, who will be the next player on Pistons fans’ wish list?
There is a fairly large group of unrestricted free agent power forwards next summer, but aside from Lebron James, who is not coming to Detroit, the list is mostly compiled of mediocre players who aren’t going to move the needle much for Detroit.
The oft-injured Kristaps Porzingis headlines the list that also includes Tobias Harris, John Collins, Harrison Barnes, Rui Hachimura and Kelly Olynyk.
There are also potential restricted free agents the Pistons could pursue in free agency or trades in Keegan Murray and Tari Eason, who would be one of my top targets for Detroit.
Of course, trading for guys on expiring deals or signing them in free agency is not the only way the Pistons can land their long-term answer at power forward.
Many believe the Pistons will pursue Lauri Markkanen, who the tanking Jazz may want to unload at some point next season, but he also comes with plenty of red flags to go along with his All-Star level talent.
This will be the biggest roster issue the Pistons have to address over the next year even if they decide to bring back Tobias Harris, as they need a younger option for the long term.