The Detroit Pistons took a massive step forward last season, improving their win total by 30 games from a year prior. The future of Detroit basketball looks brighter than it has in a long time. Not only is this a playoff team, but the Pistons also have draft capital, assets, and valuable young players that set them up well for the future.
One of the biggest factors for Detroit's success was surrounding their young players with the right group of veterans. The additions of Tobias Harris, Tim Hardaway Jr., and Malik Beasley, as well as Dennis Schröder at the trade deadline, were a big reason why the Pistons took a big leap.
Pistons Should Consider Selling High on Tobias Harris
To take another leap, however, the Pistons need to part ways with a few of these veterans. One under-discussed move GM Trajan Langdon should consider is trading Tobias Harris this offseason.
When the Pistons signed Harris to a two-year, $52 million deal last summer, it took most fans by surprise. However, Harris silenced the doubters with his solid two-way play. He was dependable and consistent in a position where Detroit didn't have too many options.
At the same time, Harris will turn 33 before next season and is on an expiring contract worth $26.6 million. Instead of letting him walk in free agency next year or having to re-sign him to a multi-year deal, the Pistons would benefit from trading him now and recouping some value in return.
Harris has played well enough on both ends of the floor that he should have trade value on the market. He plays a premium position and doesn't have too many weaknesses in his game. The Pistons would benefit from finding a long-term solution at power forward and replacing Harris. If they can find a team willing to give up a first-round pick or a young player of value for Harris, it behooves them to at least seriously consider it.