Detroit Pistons Trade Rumors: Toronto Raptors Called About Andre Drummond
By Zac Snyder
Before trading for Serge Ibaka, the Toronto Raptors reportedly called the Detroit Pistons to discuss a deal for Andre Drummond.
The more interesting Detroit Pistons trade rumors are about what could happen, but sometimes there are intriguing nuggets about what didn’t happen. One such example of the latter category is a report that the Toronto Raptors called the Pistons about a potential deal centered around a Jonas Valanciunas–Andre Drummond swap.
Sports Illustrated’s Jake Fischer had the following in the Raptors section of his NBA Trade Deadline team-by-team preview:
"As much as Toronto needs to find depth behind its current frontline, the Raptors are also still skeptical about Jonas Valanciunas. Before they acquired Serge Ibaka, the Raptors called the Pistons pitching a package centered around Valanciunas for Drummond, according to a league source."
The Raptors went on to acquire Serge Ibaka from the Orlando Magic in exchange for Terrence Ross and a first round pick, a sure indication the Pistons weren’t interested in the further details the Raptors were pitching.
Stan Van Gundy again reiterated yesterday that all sorts of discussions happen all the time and that nothing comes of most of it. He even acknowledged that there had been some discussions involving Drummond as some teams have called about him. Via MLive’s Aaron McMann:
"With regard to Drummond, the Pistons’ 6-foot-11 center who led the NBA in rebounding last season, Van Gundy acknowledged Tuesday trade discussions have been had. Nothing serious, he said, but teams have inquired."
Trade rumors involving Drummond, Reggie Jackson and even Kentavious Caldwell-Pope have popped up in recent days. That’s no guarantee any of the three will eventually be dealt but the Pistons are apparently at least listening to what returns could be had for even their most high-profile players.
Next: Jackson-Rubio Rumor Not Dead Yet
The NBA Trade Deadline is Thursday at 3 p.m. Eastern.