Pistons Show Promise, But Trade Deadline Decisions Could Shape Future

The Detroit Pistons, under new leadership from Trajan Langdon and head coach J.B. Bickerstaff, are starting to resemble a team with a clear direction. For a franchise that’s been mired in rebuild mode, the early signs of progress are hard to ignore.

With Cade Cunningham and Jaden Ivey hitting their stride as the team’s top scorers, and Jalen Duren cementing himself as a long-term answer in the middle, the Pistons are showing flashes of potential.

But as promising as their young core is, Detroit’s immediate future could hinge on how they handle the upcoming trade deadline.

This roster has no shortage of veteran pieces that could be attractive to playoff contenders, and that puts the Pistons in an enviable position: one where they can improve their future flexibility while still staying competitive.

Tim Hardaway Jr. and Malik Beasley are the most obvious trade chips. Both are proven shooters, both are on expiring deals, and both fit the mold of reliable role players for teams looking to make a postseason push.

Detroit’s decision to acquire them this offseason has paid off in terms of floor spacing and leadership, but moving one or both could fetch valuable draft assets, as relayed by Michael Scotto of HoopsHype.

Isaiah Stewart’s situation is more complicated. His four-year, $60 million extension just kicked in, but he’s coming off the bench after two years as a starter. While his improved shot-blocking and toughness have been noticeable, his fit with this roster raises questions.

Rival executives believe he’ll be on the trade market, Scotto noted, and Stewart could net a significant return if Detroit decides to prioritize future flexibility.

Then there’s Paul Reed — a breakout player in Philadelphia who’s now buried on the Pistons’ bench. With a non-guaranteed contract, Reed is a low-risk gamble for teams seeking depth, and Detroit might flip him for a second-round pick or use him in salary-matching deals.

Basically, the Pistons are growing, but their ability to leverage their veterans could define how far they go this season — and beyond.

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