From the Pistons’ perspective, sending out Jalen Duren in a sign-and-trade to get back Ryan Rollins and Myles Turner from the Bucks could be a dream scenario. However, Detroit fans shouldn’t get their hopes up about that possibility because the Bucks will be hesitant to part ways with Rollins in particular, especially for a risky return like Duren. If the Pistons want to pry Rollins away, they’ll need to include a lot more value in the trade.
Rollins is highly coveted by the Bucks
For good reason, the Bucks hold Rollins in very high regard. He was arguably the team’s best player last season while Giannis Antetokounmpo nursed various injuries. Despite the Greek Freak’s inconsistency, Rollins emerged as a legitimate Most Improved Player candidate by raising his averages to 17 points, 5 rebounds and 6 assists per game.Â
Rollins’ rapid rate of progress at age 23 has definitely contributed to his high regard within the Bucks organization. Last season, he nearly tripled his scoring rate from the year prior, when he only averaged 6 points per game. Given his trajectory in the last year, it’s not unreasonable to think Rollins can approach an All-Star level of play very soon.
And that’s what makes him so appealing as a theoretical backcourt mate for Cade Cunningham. Rollins has already shown the ability to excel as the primary focus of opposing defenses, but he could be even more efficient as a second option. He’s also more of a natural shooting guard with great off-ball skills so he could slot perfectly next to Cade.Â
The Bucks won’t give up Rollins for cheap
On top of his play and development, the Bucks also consider Rollins a great trade chip because of his contract value. He’ll be making just $4 million next season, arguably the best value deal in the entire NBA. Even if they choose to extend him at a greater dollar amount, Rollins will likely still cost much less than Duren on his next contract despite providing similar value.
Last season, Duren played like an All-Star and All-NBA talent until the lights got brightest in the playoffs. His historic collapse in the postseason reduced his trade value to a level on par with Rollins, and possibly even worse from Milwaukee's standpoint due to the financial ramifications of Duren's impending new deal.
The Bucks will likely prefer their own homegrown talent, especially when Rollins will give them much better cap flexibility going forward and is already arguably a better self-creator than Duren. If the Pistons want to land Rollins in a trade, it'll cost them more than just Duren. The Bucks will want additional draft compensation on top of Duren just to send back Rollins, let alone their starting center as well in Myles Turner.
With that considered, the chances of Detroit landing Rollins are slim to none unless they are willing to go all-in for him. Bringing him back will require giving up on Duren along with some future drafts. Even though Rollins would be a great fit, the Pistons probably aren't yet ready to risk that much for him.
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