The Detroit Pistons are in the midst of a rebuild that finally looks to be taking shape. Cade Cunningham's excellent second half of the season is a reason for confidence in Detroit and after another rough season this year, the Pistons figure to receive one of the top picks in the draft. In order to expedite their rebuild, the Pistons could be active in the trade market this offseason. Forward Jerami Grant has long been linked with a move away from the team, and it seems likely he'll be dealt over the summer.
The Pistons will likely be looking to acquire some draft capital in any trade they execute involving Grant, but getting back a veteran in the deal could also prove valuable. Acquiring talent to help the development of Bey and Cunningham, in addition to whomever the Pistons draft with their first-round pick this season, will be crucial for the team in the offseason, and they can certainly manage to bring back a mix of draft assets and a veteran player or two in a trade involving Grant. With that in mind, here are two early trade targets for the Pistons this offseason.
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2 early trade targets for Detroit Pistons this offseason
Josh Hart, Portland Trail Blazers
The Portland Trail Blazers have consistently been at the forefront of Jerami Grant trade rumors, and are considered the most likely trade destination for the 28-year-old this offseason. If the Pistons do end up facilitating a deal with Portland this offseason, they should be looking to bring Josh Hart back in the trade. Hart is a jack-of-all-trades who can provide value both offensively and defensively. He's a proven scorer who is also a talented defender, rebounder, and passer. While he isn't a star by any stretch, he's a perfect role player to compliment the likes of Bey and Cunningham, offering much-needed versatility to this Pistons team.
Article Continues BelowHart is under contract for two more seasons, though he has a player option for 2023-24. The Trail Blazers would likely be willing to offload him to Detroit if it meant Grant would be headed the other way, and if the Blazers throw in some draft capital in addition to Hart, this is something the Pistons would be wise to explore.
Malik Beasley, Minnesota Timberwolves
Another team that has emerged as a potential Grant suitor is the Minnesota Timberwolves, who have enjoyed a tremendous turnaround this season. Minnesota will be looking to further improve this offseason, and Grant could be the missing piece they need to take the next steps. If the Pistons want to entertain a Grant trade with the Timberwolves, Malik Beasley would be the perfect player to target. Beasley is just 25 years old and could provide the Pistons with a valuable 3-and-D threat on the wing. Minnesota was rumored to be shopping Beasley at the NBA trade deadline, but nothing ever materialized. It would make sense that the former Nuggets' first-round pick would be available in the offseason.
This season, Beasley is averaging 12.1 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 1.5 assists while shooting 37.7% from 3-point range, hitting 3.0 per game. He could improve on those numbers with an increased role in Detroit, while also serving as a viable replacement for Grant, who better suits the Pistons' timeline. Beasley is under contract through the 2023-24 season, for which he has a club option. With a few years of control left, Beasley would be an excellent addition for Detroit without breaking the bank.