The Detroit Pistons are poised to enter the 2024 NBA offseason with a clear objective: to bolster their roster and accelerate their rebuild. They have a young core showing promise and a passionate fanbase eager for a return to playoff contention, the Pistons’ front office is under pressure to make savvy moves. As trade discussions heat up, three names have surfaced as potential targets: Tim Hardaway Jr., Isaiah Jackson, and Tyler Herro. Each player offers unique skills that could significantly impact Detroit’s trajectory.
Reflecting on the Pistons 2023 season
The Pistons have endured two consecutive seasons as the NBA's worst team. They hit a low point with a franchise-worst 14-68 record in 2023-24. This was despite it being the fourth year under the current front office regime.
This regime is undergoing significant changes, with Trajan Langdon reportedly set to take over as president of basketball operations. This hire marks a crucial decision for owner Tom Gores, given that the Pistons have not secured a playoff win and have had only one winning season since he took over the team in 2011.
Langdon faces numerous critical decisions. These include restructuring the front office, deciding the fate of coach Monty Williams, and managing a young roster filled with former lottery picks that have yet to find cohesion. Additionally, he will have to navigate a top-five draft pick. Langdon must also utilize one of the league's most substantial cap spaces effectively.
Here we will look at the three players who are early trade targets for the Detroit Pistons in the 2024 NBA offseason.
Tim Hardaway Jr
The Pistons are set to have over $60 million in cap space but haven't finished above .500 since 2016. They also have not won a playoff series since 2008. These underscore the need for cautious spending.
Sure, absorbing unwanted contracts is one strategy. However, investing heavily in players who may hinder the development of their young core is another, more risky approach. Moreover, trading away future first-round picks for a major acquisition could be even more detrimental to their rebuilding timeline.
Remember that Detroit needs to surround Cade Cunningham and Ausar Thompson with reliable shooting. As such, exploring Tim Hardaway Jr's expiring contract presents a rather interesting option. Given the Dallas Mavericks' current roster dynamics, Hardaway might not command substantial assets. His consistent long-range shooting offers the Pistons a clearer path to incorporating more shooting around Cunningham and Thompson. This could work especially if Detroit is willing to use Isaiah Stewart at center or count on Cunningham as one of the shooters.
Isaiah Jackson
The Pacers have several big men who could attract the Pistons' interest. This is especially true with Obi Toppin and Jalen Smith approaching free agency. However, if the Pacers decide to retain them, Isaiah Jackson might become available. At just 22 years old, Jackson has already demonstrated his shot-blocking prowess. He averaged 1.3 blocks per game in just 14 minutes of play. That is an impressive stat for a backup role.
For Detroit, acquiring Jackson would address multiple needs. His defensive skills would significantly bolster the Pistons' defense. It ranked in the bottom third of the league last season. Jackson's athleticism would also complement the offensive talents on the roster, fostering a more balanced and dynamic team. By leveraging some of their draft picks and young talents, the Pistons could potentially entice the Pacers into a trade. They could secure a promising player who aligns with their long-term goals.
Tyler Herro
Should Tyler Herro become available, many teams would be interested in his scoring abilities and status as one of the league's top high-volume three-point shooters. Herro has also proven his mettle in the playoffs. He can bring valuable experience despite his youth. Although it's unclear why Miami would consider trading him, and whether Detroit has the assets the Heat would desire, Herro's fit alongside Cunningham and Thompson is intriguing.
In truth, obtaining Herro would be challenging given his crucial role in Miami's plans. Nonetheless, the Pistons possess a variety of assets. These include promising young players and future draft picks, which could form a compelling trade package. Herro's presence would immediately enhance Detroit's backcourt. He would create a formidable duo with Cunningham. His experience with the Heat's winning culture and playoff battles would also inject a much-needed competitive spirit into the Pistons. This can help them make a significant leap forward.
Looking Ahead
The 2024 offseason presents a pivotal opportunity for the Detroit Pistons to take a significant step forward in their rebuilding process. Targeting players like Tim Hardaway Jr, Isaiah Jackson, and Tyler Herro could provide the perfect blend of veteran experience, defensive prowess, and offensive firepower. Each player brings unique attributes that would address specific needs for the Pistons. Thy can help the squad transition from a rebuilding team to a playoff contender. With smart, aggressive moves in the trade market, Detroit could be on the cusp of an exciting new chapter in their storied franchise history.
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