The Detroit Pistons have exceeded expectations through 16 games this season, holding a 7-9 record that has them in the 7th seed in the Eastern Conference.
They are still not a finished product, and will have to show they can compete consistently before the team makes moves to improve the roster, but the Pistons might find themselves in an unfamiliar position at the trade deadline.
Detroit could look to add talent this year instead of just selling off whatever pieces they have for future assets, and there are two trade scenarios that they have to be ready for if they are in a position to compete for the playoffs when February rolls around.
#1: Using Tim Hardaway Jr’s expiring contract to land an upgrade
THJ has been better than expected this season, as he is hitting 41 percent of his 3-point shots and playing energetic defense.
But he’s 32-years-old and on an expiring contract, so not likely part of the Pistons’ long-term plans.
The Pistons didn’t miss a beat without him after putting Malik Beasley in the starting five, and given Beasley is five years younger, he should be the priority for a multi-year contract next offseason.
THJ has a $16 million expiring contract that the Pistons could add to their $10 million in cap space to make a move for an impact player.
There are several centers on bad teams who might be available, as well as teams that will be looking to cut future payroll if they are out of it at the deadline.
$26 million may not buy you a superstar, but the Pistons may be able to nab a veteran who can help them in the stretch run if they are in the mix. There are players like Brook Lopez or Clint Capela that the Pistons could use for a late boost who wouldn’t come with any long-term obligations.
Teams to monitor: Bucks, Hawks, Clippers
#2: Trading Jalen Duren
I know a lot of fans won’t like this one, but when you look at some of the free-agent centers next offseason, moving Duren could end up being necessary if the Pistons want to upgrade at the position.
It would be tough to lose a 21-year-old with so much potential but Duren still hasn’t made any progress in the one area the Pistons need him to, which is defense.
The Pistons already have a solid backup under contract in Isaiah Stewart, so do they have their starting center or not? If the answer is no, then moving Duren as part of a package might be the smartest move.
What would the Pistons look like with a real rim protector or a guy who could stretch the floor?
Would Duren, a first-round pick and a couple of second rounders be enough to land Walker Kessler? The Pistons might have to find out.