The Detroit Pistons have addressed some of their weaknesses this summer. They desperately needed more offensive firepower, and GM Trajan Langdon had expressed his desire to add more shooting and ball-handling. The addition of Isaiah Joe will certainly help on the shooting front, but the Pistons still have a way to go before they can feel great about their offensive ceiling.
That is why the Pistons need to continue searching for offensive upgrades. They are unlikely to make a big swing on the trade market, but whenever an opportunity to add more quality for the cheap, the Pistons have to seriously consider it.
Klay Thompson could be one of these can't-miss opportunities.
The perfect sharpshooter may become available for the Pistons
Thompson is nearing the end of his time in Dallas. He is entering the final season of his contract, and with the Mavs having entered a new era around Cooper Flagg, they have little need for the 36-year-old sharpshooter. The Mavericks have 16 players under contract right now, and parting ways with Thompson seems like the most natural move that makes sense for both sides.
The problem is, Thompson has no trade value due to his $17.4 million salary for next season. Matching salaries in a trade will be difficult, and the Mavs won't want to take back any players because of roster spot concerns. NBA insider Marc Stein recently said that Dallas prefers to trade him rather than buy out his contract, but that will be easier said than done.
A contract buyout will be the more likely option. This will allow Thompson to sign with whichever team he would like.
At this point in his career, Thompson should have some interest in playing for a title contender. Going back to the Golden State Warriors will surely be an option, but they are unlikely to be a relevant playoff team anytime soon. If Thompson wants to continue playing for a championship, very few teams will offer him a better opportunity than the Pistons.
Detroit has roster spot issues as well, but that's a quick fix. The Pistons have Taurean Prince, Gary Harris, and Chaz Lanier on the roster. One of them will have to make way for Jalen Duren if and when he is re-signed. The other one can be cut to make room for Thompson. Signing Thompson would also make Kevin Huerter rather expendable, potentially leading to his exit.
The Pistons can't afford to feel like they have done enough to fix their offense. Even at his advanced age, Thompson would be a major upgrade as a shooter off the bench. If the Pistons have the opportunity to sign him once he hits the market, they would be wise to take it.
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