The Detroit Pistons are scanning the market for upgrades this offseason, and with Jalen Duren threatening to depart in free agency via sign-and-trade, Trajan Langdon has his work cut out for him to improve the roster this offseason.
Detroit has been linked to nearly every top name on the trade block this season, but up to this point, the only addition the team has made is Isaiah Joe.
Looking at the options in free agency, it's understandable why the Pistons are depending on the trade market to bolster their roster rather than looking to land a big fish in free agency.
If the Pistons play their cards right, patience could lead them to a top option becoming available.
Pistons could wait for DeMar DeRozan to be waived by the Kings
The Sacramento Kings have been actively looking for a team willing to take on DeMar DeRozan's $25.7 million contract.
Up to this point, Sacramento hasn't found any suitors willing to take on the veteran's contract, which reportedly could lead them to stretch and waive the six-time All-Star if he's still on the roster come July.
If that's the case, he'd be the perfect candidate for a team like the Pistons, who desperately need to find Cade Cunningham a viable second option this offseason.
Obviously, DeRozan isn't the star he once was at age 36, but he's still a highly productive option that could offer Detroit exactly what they're looking for.
Averaging 18.4 points, 4.1 assists, and 2.9 rebounds on 49.7% shooting from the field and 32% from three in 77 games last season for the Kings, not only did DeRozan prove to still be a reliable starter, but put his reliability on display, missing only five games on a tanking team.
There's no doubt that putting all your eggs in the basket of a 36-year-old free agent isn't a move the Pistons should have at the top of their priorities, but if they're still in the market come July, DeRozan should be a player they seriously consider.
Throughout his entire NBA career, DeRozan has proven to be a dangerous mid-range option, and he's an experienced veteran who could offer a much-needed boost and reliable option for J.B. Bickerstaff to rely on outside of Cunningham, even if Tobias Harris is back.
If Detroit can land DeRozan on a discounted deal, not only would the move make sense, but it could be a huge addition even if it's a short-sighted one.
Not to mention, if DeRozan is indeed stretched and waived, the Kings will be paying him his remaining contract, which could help the Pistons sign him to a cheap contract, perhaps even a veteran minimum.
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