Finding a second star to play next to Cade Cunningham will be a big storyline for the Detroit Pistons going forward. Whether it is this offseason, next trade deadline, or later, the Pistons will have to add another elite player to play alongside Cunningham if they want to take the next step as a franchise.
The NBA offseason presents the first opportunity for the Pistons to try to land that player. A hectic summer is expected with plenty of stars potentially on the move, and Detroit's front office is in a good position to take advantage of the chaos.
Pistons Rumors: Darius Garland May Be Available for Trade This Offseason
According to ESPN's Brian Windhorst, Cleveland Cavaliers guard Darius Garland is one of the bigger names who could be on the move this offseason.
"I think there's some belief that Darius Garland might be available under the right circumstances," Windhorst said during Friday's appearance on ESPN 850 Cleveland. "I think the Cavs are listening and open-minded."
"I think there's some belief that Darius Garland might be available under the right circumstances... I think the Cavs are listening and open minded," - @WindhorstESPN.
— ESPN Cleveland (@ESPNCleveland) June 5, 2025
Would you be open to the Cavs trading Darius Garland? pic.twitter.com/KM0eJQ7jIT
If Windhorst is right and the Cavaliers are open to listening to offers, the Pistons should make a call to their division rivals to check the asking price.
After having another All-Star caliber season in Cleveland, Garland struggled in the NBA playoffs for the second straight year. He was impacted by a toe-related injury he suffered against the Miami Heat in the first round, forcing him to miss four games.
This could provide a buy-low opportunity for the Pistons if they play their cards right. If Detroit can acquire Garland without giving up most of their first-round draft capital, that would be a worthy gamble on a former top-five pick.
Inserting Garland into the starting lineup as the point guard frees Cunningham up to play more off the ball. Cunningham would have more space to operate thanks to Garland's shooting ability and wouldn't have to carry the offense on his own night in and night out.
Garland is an excellent pick-and-roll operator who can shoot off the dribble, make plays for his teammates, and finish inside the arc. He would immediately become the best offensive player Cunningham has ever played with in Detroit.
There would be defensive concerns, of course, but Detroit has enough defensive talent in other positions to make up for the shortcomings Garland brings on that end of the floor.
The Pistons need more shot creation, playmaking, and shooting to take the next step. Garland checks all those boxes, and for the right price, Detroit should consider pursuing him.