As the Detroit Pistons look for ways to improve their roster for next season, one obvious need is more shooting. Despite taking a big step forward on the offensive end last season, the Pistons still lack elite marksmen and sufficient spacing.
Considering the fact that the Pistons have non-shooters in Ausar Thompson, Jalen Duren, and Ron Holland as part of their core, they need to supplement them with as much shooting as possible in other positions. Add the possibility of Malik Beasley leaving in the offseason, and Detroit's need to acquire quality shooters increases.
One way to add an elite three-point shooter is via the trade market. The Pistons could target the Boston Celtics' offensive weapon, Sam Hauser.
Sam Hauser Is an Excellent Fit for the Pistons
Detroit should be able to acquire Hauser in exchange for a protected first-round pick. The Pistons have all of their own draft picks going forward after this season, and the sides can negotiate which year's pick will go to Boston. Simone Fontecchio works for salary-matching, but the veteran forward can also help the Celtics in short spurts.
The biggest gain for the Celtics is financial. They project to be the most expensive team of all time next season. This move helps them offload Hauser's four-year, $45 million deal that begins next season, while acquiring Fontecchio's expiring $8.3 million salary for the 2025-26 campaign.
Hauser immediately becomes the best shooter on the team. The 27-year-old has shot over 40% from three in each of his first four seasons in the league. His 6-foot-8 frame makes it easy for him to get his shot off over defenders. This has helped him average 9.5 three-point attempts per 36 minutes for his career.
This combination of volume and accuracy is hard to find in the NBA, especially from a combo forward. It may not be the blockbuster trade some Pistons fans are hoping for, but targeting a high-end role player with championship pedigree like Hauser could do wonders for Detroit.