Ever since the Dallas Mavericks unsurprisingly fired GM Nico Harrison following their 3-8 start, trade speculations have kicked off. The Detroit Pistons are off to a great start and may not need reinforcements on paper, but this hasn't stopped media members from coming up with mock trade scenarios.
On The Zach Lowe Show podcast, NBA insiders Zach Lowe and J. Kyle Mann discussed the Pistons as a possible landing spot for the 32-year-old big man, via Basketnews.com. The general framework of the deal was Jaden Ivey and Tobias Harris, and one of Duncan Robinson or Isaiah Stewart to match salaries. The Pistons would obviously need to add significant draft capital to entice the Mavericks.
Pistons Must Stay Away from Anthony Davis After the Nico Harrison Firing
The appeal of trading for a second star next to Cade Cunningham is understandable. The Pistons look to be one move away from being true championship contenders, despite their hot start. Trading for a player like AD is a rare opportunity and should be given serious thought. There is a chance the Pistons will never get the opportunity to acquire a star as good as Davis in the next few years.
At the same time, the Pistons need to tread lightly. Pushing all or most of your chips in for an injury-prone 32-year-old who isn't off to a good start to the season carries serious risks. If Davis were to stay healthy and play at the level he was when he was with the Lakers, then Lowe's trade scenario would be a home run deal for Detroit.
What are the chances of AD being that player in his age-33 and 34 seasons? He insists on playing power forward, but has looked not fast, mobile, or athletic enough to do so this season. His questionable jump shot makes him a tough fit next to another big man on offense. His best position is the five, but the Pistons already have Jalen Duren. If AD is going to play the four, would he be a good enough fit next to Duren?
If the Pistons don't give a ton of draft capital, perhaps this could be a worthy gamble. Yet, it's hard to imagine that the Pistons would have the best offer unless they were willing to give up multiple unprotected first-round picks. The Mavericks may not want to move him for less than that, just to save face after giving up Luka Doncic to get him.
As appealing as it may be to build a one-two punch of Cunningham and Davis, the Pistons are likely better off keeping their powder dry for a younger star who fits their timeline better.