In order to take the next step towards true championship contention, the Detroit Pistons must surround Cade Cunningham with more talent. Taking some of the offensive burden off Cunningham will help the Pistons take another leap going forward. While doing so, however, Detroit can't jeopardize its future too much. Therefore, they need to add players who fit the Pistons' core's timeline.
Considering that the Pistons will likely use most of their cap space to re-sign Malik Beasley and Dennis Schröder in the offseason, they will need to make these upgrades on the trade market. One player that comes to mind who would be an excellent fit is Coby White of the Chicago Bulls.
The Pistons could pursue the 25-year-old combo guard to pair him with Cunningham in the backcourt. A trade package of Simone Fontecchio, Marcus Sasser, and two unprotected first-round picks should be enough to poach White from Chicago.
White gives the Pistons another ball-handler, playmaker, and shot creator. He is a versatile shooter who can hit jumpers off the dribble and as an off-ball player. His ability to play on and off the ball makes him an intriguing fit on this team. Since the Bulls have been stuck in play-in limbo over the past few years, White has gone under the radar, but he is a high-volume, high-efficiency scorer who is reliable and never misses any games.
What makes White available on the trade market is the fact that he needs a contract extension. He is entering the final season of his contract and will likely require at least $25 million per year on his next deal. The Bulls have an abundance of guards and need to pay Josh Giddey a lucrative, long-term extension. That is why they should presumably be interested in recouping some value for White now instead of letting him walk in free agency next offseason.
The Pistons, on the other hand, have cleaner books and can fit White into their salary structure. A backcourt quartet of Cunningham, White, Jaden Ivey, and Schröder is a fascinating one, and would allow J.B. Bickerstaff to deploy intriguing three-guard lineups. Whether the Pistons want to throw significant resources to add another starter-caliber player this offseason remains to be seen.