The Detroit Pistons rumors of trading for Lauri Markkanen won’t die, but it will take a monster package to get him off the Utah Jazz. Bill Simmons loved the trade idea and noted it would take Jaden Ivey and three first-round picks to get in the ballpark. The Pistons would need to make the math work and convince Danny Ainge that it is enough to part with his All-Star stretch big man.
Pistons fans are on board, and it is a strong on-paper fit. In his three seasons in Utah, Markkanen has averaged 23.0 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 1.8 assists, while shooting 38.0 percent from 3-point range. He gives the Pistons a second star and some needed shooting.
Detroit would be taking on the final four years and $195.8 million remaining on his contract, but there will be zero discounts. The Jazz will want top dollar for Markkanen with a focus on draft capital and young talent. This is a workable deal, but the Pistons must be prepared to pay up.
Pistons should offer this trade package for Lauri Markkanen ASAP
The Jazz will want Ausar Thompson, but Detroit would be foolish to part with the potential star. Markkanen is in his prime and has only made one All-Star appearance. The Pistons can’t bet against Ausar’s future for the immediate upgrade.
That puts the focus on Jaden Ivey. The former fifth overall draft pick is not the cleanest fit with Cade Cunningham, but still has massive upside. Utah is in the early stages of their rebuild and is looking for young talent who can blossom into stars. Ivey could take a more on-ball role in Salt Lake City and raise his game to another level.
The Pistons would have to add Tobias Harris and a cheap contract like Bobi Klintman to make the math work. Utah will desire significant draft capital, but this deal should get things done.
Three unprotected firsts for Markkanen is a massive price, especially for a one-time All-Star with defensive questions. He has never played in a playoff game. The Pistons would love to have a sharpshooting big man, but they can’t sell everything to get him.
It is time for Jazz to move on from Markkanen. The 28-year-old is in his prime, and Utah is at least three years away from returning to the playoffs. The Jazz should cash in on picks and look to find a superstar building block through the draft.
Pistons fans may not be happy with this price, but that is what it will take to get Markkanen out of Utah. A young player with upside, multiple first-round draft picks, and salary matching for the All-Star’s contract are a must. Detroit’s front office should look for a second star, and he may be the best player available before the trade deadline.
The Detroit Pistons need to get Cade Cunningham a co-star, and Lauri Markkanen is an answer. The duo could lead a nearly unstoppable offense if the Pistons get aggressive. The trade is a no-brainer if it raises Detroit into serious title contention. Markkanen could finally get his chance to play on the biggest stage, and Pistons fans would love it. All that is left to do is make it happen.