The Pistons should be active in the trade market for two-way players this offseason and they need look no further than the defending NBA champions. The Oklahoma City Thunder are built to be a title contender for years to come, but could be convinced to part ways with Cason Wallace for the right price. The Thunder will soon get extremely expensive in their payroll, and trading Wallace before his next contract would give them more flexibility to build around their core players.
Cason Wallace is exactly what the Pistons need
Wallace could solve problems for the Pistons on both ends of the court. Detroit desperately lacked proper two-way players this postseason, and that's what separates them from true title contenders like the Thunder and Spurs. But Wallace can be a star role player on both ends of the court with his tenacious defense and excellent shooting.
In the regular season, Wallace led the entire league in total steals (barely edging out the Pistons' own defensive ace Ausar Thompson). But his contributions aren't confined to one side of the ball; he's also developed into a respectable shooter with developing ball-handling skills. Although Wallace's offensive growth wasn't always displayed in the regular season, he's found a good stride in the playoffs.
This postseason, Wallace is shooting 49% from both the field and 3-point range. His shooting has been a key release valve for the Thunder, but he's also capable of attacking closeouts with pump fakes and drives.
Wallace's experience is a game-changer
The Pistons ran out of gas in the playoffs at the end of two extremely hard-fought series. With their playstyle of long, grinding games and little playoff experience, Detroit's young stars weren't able to maintain their level of play as the postseason progressed.
But Wallace has seen it all after just 3 seasons in Oklahoma City. This is his third straight season in the conference finals, and of course he played a key role in the title run last year. If the Pistons can bring Wallace into Detroit, he will provide the team with valuable guidance about what it takes to make a deep playoff run.
Despite being just 22 years old, Wallace already plays with the poise of a veteran and has extremely valuable experience. He would be a benefit to the Pistons both with his on-court play and his locker room intangibles. If he's available for trade, the Pistons should do whatever they can to acquire him - within reason.
Wallace is entering the last year of his rookie contract next season, after which he could become a restricted free agent. He's gaining notoriety around the league and could receive big offers in 2027. If the Thunder want to get cheaper and younger before then, the Pistons should be glad to oblige.
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