John Collins, PF Utah Jazz, 26
There are definitely differing opinions on the former Atlanta Hawk, current Utah Jazz power forward John Collins. The 6-foot-9 PF was a stretch forward for Atlanta, but injury would eventually hinder his play. After his time with the Hawks ended poorly and he was shipped out to the Jazz, Collins has actually seen a slight improvement. This season, Collins is averaging 14 points and 7.6 rebounds for the Jazz, with 37 percenet from three. All of which would be welcome for Detroit.
Defensively, however, Collins struggles as a stretch big/power forward. He has the worst defensive rating on this list of 121.3, which may make this a no-go for Detroit as they already are one of the worst defensive teams in the league. Many people think that his offense and lack of defense makes him better suited for a wing position in a larger lineup. Even at the three, Detroit could still use his offense. Collins has a PIE of 9.6, and is said to be on the outs for Utah. If the defense doesn’t scare Detroit away, they could possibly add Collins for a discount at the deadline.
De’Andre Hunter, SF Atlanta Hawks, 26
Just last year, De’Andre Hunter was firmly on the trade block for the Hawks. His usage will always be limited in an Atlanta offense that already featured Trae Young and Dejounte Murray. After he wasn’t moved at the deadline, and the Hawks frontcourt/wings position got even more crowded thanks to the Saddiq Bey trade, Hunter seemed to be getable. My hesitation on Detroit acquiring him last season was wiped away this year, as his three point shooting has increased from 35 to 40 percent. His rebounding, assists and points per night (4.1, 1.4, 15) have stayed constant, but he is much more efficient from deep. A skill Detroit desperately needs to acquire at the deadline.
His defense, unfortunately, is not where Detroit needs it to be. Currently ranking at 126th in defensive rating, Hunter is below average on that end. Still, at just 26 years old, with a change of scenery and a great defensive assistant coach in Dan Burke (if he eventually returns to the team), Hunter could improve and be the true 3-D power forward for the Pistons that Isaiah Livers hasn’t panned out to be.