Even though Jalen Duren's restricted free agency saga remains unresolved, it's safe to assume that the bulk of the Detroit Pistons' offseason is done. Besides the inevitable re-signing of Duren, the Pistons are unlikely to make any other significant moves.
Whether that's a mistake or the right decision is a debate for another time. For now, let's take stock of everything the Pistons did this summer and choose our favorite move.
The Pistons kicked off the summer by essentially turning Isaiah Stewart and the No. 21 pick into Ebuka Okorie. They also acquired the second-round pick that became Ugonna Onyenso.
Once free agency started, the Pistons traded for Isaiah Joe from the Oklahoma City Thunder for two second-round picks. They then signed John Collins to a three-year, $51 million deal and let Tobias Harris sign with the Spurs. They also re-signed Kevin Huerter to a three-year, $27 million deal, which I already chose as their worst move of the summer.
Javonte Green was brought back, Caris LeVert was traded for cap relief, and Taurean Prince and Gary Harris, while Marcus Sasser was essentially salary-dumped to the Dallas Mavericks.
Acquiring Isaiah Joe will prove to be a big win for the Pistons
Out of all these moves, trading Joe stands out as a clear win. The Pistons gave up Minnesota's 2030 second-round pick and their own 2031 second-round pick in this deal, which are ultimately insignificant.
Joe had become expendable in OKC as the Thunder faced a financial cliff deep into the second apron. The 27-year-old shooting guard and his $11.3 million salary became a luxury in their loaded roster.
For the Pistons, however, he is the perfect fit.
Not only is he on a short, team-friendly contract, but Joe is also one of the most underrated shooters in the league. He has hit over 40% from downtown in each of his last four seasons on high volume. Joe has ranked in the top five in the league in three-point attempts per 36 minutes in each of the last two seasons. That volume and accuracy combination will give the Pistons offense a major boost.
Detroit desperately needed more shooting. They were overly reliant on Duncan Robinson down the stretch as their only elite shooter. Now, Joe gives them another threat from the outside without creating as big a defensive liability as Robinson.
Plus, he is still young enough to be a part of this core going forward, despite having a ton of postseason experience and a championship pedigree.
The only move the Pistons made this summer that fills a clear need and should provide an immediate upgrade is the acquisition of Isaiah Joe. Regardless of what happens with the Pistons next season, they will almost certainly not regret making this deal for Joe.
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