Grade the trade: Surprise team snags DeMar DeRozan in stunning mock deal
By Tyler Watts
What would the Pistons give up for DeMar DeRozan?
Detroit is in a sticky spot. They have not reached the playoffs since 2019 and have made just two appearances since 2009. Their entire organization is eager to win. The Pistons hoped Cade Cunningham would become a star as they leaped up the standings under new head coach Monty Williams. Instead, they are a young and ill-fitting roster that cannot seem to scrap together a win.
The Pistons must make changes and adding a veteran star could be just what the team needs.
Detroit will have cap space in the summer of 2024, but convincing a free agent to sign in the Motor City will be difficult. The Pistons can jump the line by acquiring DeRozan now. Could they convince the Bulls to part with him a discount? Bleacher Report’s Andy Bailey offered this package.
DeRozan to Pistons
Joe Harris is on a $19.9 million expiring contract, and Killian Hayes becomes a restricted free agent in the summer of 2024. The 22-year-old former top-ten draft pick is a stout defender but struggles on the offensive end. Chicago may look to flip him or hope they can develop his offensive game. The apple of their eye would be the draft choice.
The Pistons owe their 2024 first-round pick to the Knicks with a top 18 protection. New York will have to wait until at least 2025, but it could be 2027 before the pick conveys. If Detroit trades their first in 2026, it would need protections through 2029, which takes some of the appeal off this trade.
This trade makes sense for the Pistons, but should the Chicago Bulls make the deal?