After the Pistons made a no-brainer trade to pick up Isaiah Joe from the Thunder, many analysts were expecting them to continue being active in the trade market for guards. However, reports now indicate that Detroit might cool off in its pursuit of other shooting guards after acquiring Joe. It wasn't the originally expected move, but the Pistons might benefit from switching their focus to other positions of need instead.
The Pistons feel set at shooting guard
When it comes to complimentary shooters, the Pistons already had one of the best in Duncan Robinson. Adding Joe into the mix gives them another elite shooting option capable of drawing defenders and hitting even tough looks. Between the two, Detroit should now have a worthy wing duo to keep defenses honest and open up the floor.
Adding offensive help through Joe's shooting could also help the Pistons avoid overpaying for another playmaker with questionable production. There are plenty of distressed assets around the league at the shooting guard position, and most of their teams would have jumped at the chance to secure significant assets from the Pistons in return. Now, the Pistons can take a more patient approach instead of giving up a big package for someone like Ja Morant or Tyler Herro.
Detroit still has work to do elsewhere
At the same time, the Pistons still have an obvious deficit of creation on the team. Outside of Cade Cunningham, none of their other players have shown the ability to consistently create advantages for themselves or teammates in the playoffs. But steps to resolve that gap can now be taken independent of the shooting guard position.
The Pistons' other big position of need is certainly power forward. For the last two seasons, the ageless wonder Tobias Harris has been practically the only option at the position when things get tough. Not only do the Pistons obviously need more depth at the 4, they also need an upgrade from Harris who can put up star numbers consistently.
Trading for Joe allows the Pistons to pursue high-profile power forwards who can instantly boost the offense and hold up on defense. Although Joe isn't a star himself, his skillset is perfect as a role player next to the Pistons' existing young core and a theoretical upgrade at power forward.
Perhaps the best part of the Isaiah Joe trade was how little it cost the Pistons. They only gave up two second-rounders, so they still have plenty of ammo for other moves. Finding Joe now in a reasonable trade gives Detroit the flexibility to use its chips for a real upgrade at a position that could have even more impact.
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