When the Detroit Pistons traded Jaden Ivey to the Chicago Bulls, it set Ivey up for a bigger role and a better chance to thrive but also set the Bulls up to make a huge mistake.
Unlike some fans, I was ok with the Ivey trade, as there didn’t seem to be a better offer out there, he wasn’t working out in Detroit, and they didn’t have time to wait around.
The Pistons also got off his gigantic cap hold and landed a better pick in the draft, so while it wasn’t the kind of impact trade some fans wanted, it should eventually help Detroit, especially if Huerter provides anything.
But let’s be real, it was tough to move off Ivey’s potential, as he put up seven 30+ point games for the Pistons, and before he got injured, he was playing the best basketball of his career.
But that Ivey never returned, and given his reduced role and minutes, was unlikely to, at least this season in Detroit.
I wouldn’t be shocked if Ivey blows up and has some big games for the tanking Bulls, but that may end up being fool’s gold when it comes to re-signing him next summer.
The Bulls won’t have much time to evaluate Jaden Ivey
The Pistons were keen to not have to worry about the headache of Ivey’s restricted free agency, as he is going to be a tough player to judge and eventually pay.
If he keeps up what he’s been doing so far this season, it’s hard to see him getting the big payday he wants, and he may end up having to settle for a short-term deal to prove himself.
That would probably be the best-case scenario for the finally-rebuilding Bulls, who could give him an extended tryout without making a long-term investment.
But what happens if Ivey does blow up for a few 30-point games? We know that this happens on bad teams that have given up trying to win, as everyone in Chicago will be gunning for their own stats, including Ivey.
There’s been no sign of it so far, but in an extended role, Ivey could put up some monster games, but they will be in meaningless contests, which won’t give the Bulls a very accurate evaluation.
It could be enough to lure them into a lucrative deal for Ivey, akin to the five-year, $90 million disaster they gave Patrick Williams, which is precisely the scenario the Pistons wanted to avoid.
I’m cheering for Ivey (except when he’s playing the Pistons) and hope it works out for him in Chicago, as he didn’t get a fair shake in Detroit but never complained or whined about his role.
But he could be a bit of fool’s gold if a few good games on a tanking team lead him to a monster contract. I wish him well but am glad the Pistons won’t be the team dealing with him this summer.