Jaden Ivey is extension-eligible, and the Detroit Pistons have a big decision to make as it pertains to how much to pay him. The front office has remained relatively quiet about extension talks so far, and how the Pistons treat Ivey with this potential extension will say a lot about how committed they are to him as their number two option behind Cade Cunningham.
What complicates this matter is the fact that Ivey is coming off an injury. After missing most of last season with a fractured fibula, his value becomes a bit harder to properly gauge. How do the Pistons feel about his overall health and ability to make an impact once he returns to the hardwood? The answer to that will obviously influence extension talks.
A fibula fracture is obviously a pretty serious injury, not to be taken lightly. How Jaden rebounds from this ailment and handles a potentially increased load is going to say a lot. Should he look shakier following his return, a long-term deal would become riskier.
Detroit is ultimately going to choose to look at Ivey one of two ways. Either they will see him as just a complimentary piece to Cade, or they think he could be a true load-bearer in their offensive system.
Ivey's extension will speak volumes about Detroit's commitment to him
Through two and a half full seasons of watching Jaden on an NBA floor, he has shown a lot of promise. Ivey's spot-up shooting and attacking the basket from the wing are some of his biggest strengths. On the defensive side of things, there's a bit more questions. The Pistons likely want to see more of him guarding multiple positions while switching effectively.
The Pistons are going to want to be vigilant in how they handle Ivey's on-court role this year. Yes, this team will be pushing for a playoff berth and a potential high seed in the East. But at the same time, they might hesitate to give Jaden excessive offensive responsibility if they suspect he might want to test free agency next summer. If he starts putting up huge numbers, the price is going to go up.
On the flip side, if Detroit is confident enough in Ivey's return to form and doesn't want to wait around until next summer, they may try to lock him down now below market value. That is, if Ivey will agree to that.
The verdict on where this organization views Jaden Ivey is coming soon. If they truly see him as their reliable number two option that can be a co-star for Cunningham, an extension could be coming very soon. If they're a little more unsure and think he could be better suited as a sixth man, expect to see this process draw out into next offseason.