What we want and don't want from the Detroit Pistons

Detroit Pistons at the trade deadline

Want to see: Moves that help the Core Four

If you are truly building around Cade, Ivey, Jalen Duren and Ausar Thompson, then act like it and add players at the deadline who complement them.

That means looking for 3-and-D wings and power forwards, veteran two-way players who aren't only good on one end. They don't have to be world-beaters, but every move should be made with the young players in mind. Ask yourself: How does this help Cade Cunningham? And if you can't find an answer, move on.

Don't want to see: Moves that help Troy Weaver

Trading for someone like Zach LaVine may help stave off the inevitable firing of Troy Weaver, but does it help this team long-term? There is probably not a move at the deadline that is going to change anything, so the last thing the Pistons can do is to make a trade just to avoid being the worst team ever. Who cares about that? This season is toast, so all moves should be made with the future in mind.

The Pistons' best chance at making a big trade is likely on draft day when they can move their 2024 first-round pick which will be a top-5 selection. The Detroit Pistons can't let a desperate GM and an impatient fanbase force them to do something with only short-term benefits.