After their respective struggles in their Play-In games, trade rumors around both Kawhi Leonard and Paolo Banchero both started to circulate. Somehow, the Pistons were even dragged into these trade talks but that would be a mistake for Detroit. Such desperate and franchise-altering moves are better suited for desperate teams, not the top seed in the East.
The Pistons won't benefit from adding Leonard or Banchero
Putting together a trade package for either of these guys will involve giving up a significant haul. Kawhi is coming off his best season in years, and Paolo is still a 23-year-old with All-Star upside, regardless of how this season turns out. Looking at Detroit's recent history, they've preferred to make smaller moves to improve on the margins rather than completely upending the team with a blockbuster move.
The Pistons have clearly found a winning formula this season based on their physical dominance and strong defensive identity. Both Leonard and Banchero have the potential to fit into that system with their large size and defensive flashes, but the outgoing package could destroy the Pistons' culture. It's hard to imagine getting either of these players without giving up some key pieces that have helped the Pistons' turnaround.
Detroit has chosen to hold off on more attainable trade targets that don't fit with the vibe of the team. It might be true that they need more reliable scoring outside of Cade Cunningham - only the playoffs will really tell - but making a huge move for an All-Star is unlikely to be the answer. The Pistons offense has been at its best this season when the ball is moving and players are flowing into different actions; both Kawhi and Paolo play in more of a ball-stopping fashion.
Adding an unrealistic target will only complicate things for Detroit
Not only would the team's play style have to change dramatically to accommodate such a huge addition, so would the salary books. The Pistons are already staring down a daunting financial summer with extensions for Jalen Duren and Ausar Thompson looming. Adding another $40-$50 million per year with either Kawhi or Paolo will only make things harder.
The Pistons have been careful to maintain financial flexibility around their young core which has served them well during their rebuild. It's allowed them to make key free agent signings and savvy trades for incremental improvements. But adding an All-Star contract to the existing core would throw away that advantage for a huge gamble.
As tempting as the thought of adding Kawhi Leonard or Paolo Banchero might be, the Pistons' reality would not benefit from these players. Detroit needs to stick with its foundation and make marginal moves, not swing for the fences for no reason.
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