The Detroit Pistons are struggling a bit in the 2024-25 NBA season, holding a 1-4 record so far. Even with veterans like Tobias Harris and Malik Beasley joining the squad, the team just can’t seem to find its groove. This has led to chatter about hitting the reset button and looking for young talent through trades. As the Pistons try to find their way back, here are three young players who could really help bring some energy and promise to the franchise.
1. Cam Thomas
Potential Trade Offer To The Nets: Jaden Ivey, 2028 First-Round Pick
Cam Thomas is absolutely lighting it up this season, averaging a jaw-dropping 27.4 points, 4.2 rebounds, and 2.6 assists over his first five games. His scoring has been a revelation for the Brooklyn Nets, especially after they moved on from Mikal Bridges, making Thomas the focal point of their offense. It’s clear that he can fill it up in a hurry, but there’s more to the story.
In the 2025 offseason, Thomas will become a restricted free agent, which could complicate things for the Nets. With the potential to land a franchise cornerstone like Cooper Flagg in the upcoming draft, the Nets might be reluctant to commit a hefty extension to Thomas. Given that they are in a rebuilding phase, they might see Thomas as a bit one-dimensional—he’s primarily a scorer and doesn’t contribute significantly in other areas of the game, like playmaking or defense.
For the Pistons, Thomas would be a fantastic addition. Picture a backcourt with Cade Cunningham and Cam Thomas; that’s a duo that could score in bunches and stretch defenses with their ability to shoot the three-ball. Thomas has shown he can light it up from beyond the arc, and his high-volume shooting could be just what the Pistons need to open up their offense.
The proposed trade of Jaden Ivey and a 2028 first-round pick might be appealing for the Nets. Ivey brings a promising skill set as a young guard and could fit into Brooklyn’s long-term plans as they rebuild. Meanwhile, the Pistons could land a dynamic scorer in Thomas, adding much-needed firepower to their lineup. With both teams in similar situations, this trade could provide the fresh start each franchise is looking for.
2. Anfernee Simons
Potential Trade Offer To The Trail Blazers: Tim Hardaway Jr., Ron Holland
Anfernee Simons has emerged as a key player for the Portland Trail Blazers, showcasing his scoring ability since stepping into a larger role after Damian Lillard’s departure. So far this season, he is averaging 20.6 points, 1.6 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game, with a shooting percentage of 38.8% from the field and 31.0% from beyond the arc, being less effective than usual.
At just 25 years old, Simons brings both youth and experience to the table. He is under contract until 2026, which means he could fit into the Pistons’ long-term plans. His three-point shooting is especially valuable; although not on a great streak currently, his career average of 38.5% from deep speaks volumes about his accuracy from downtown.
Reports have surfaced suggesting that the Trail Blazers are looking to trade Simons and Jerami Grant as part of a broader rebuild. With Portland having struggled to find a consistent rhythm this season, they may view moving Simons as a way to acquire assets that align more closely with their future vision, especially as they eye high draft picks in the upcoming years.
For the Pistons, adding Simons could create an exciting backcourt pairing with Cade Cunningham. Both players excel at creating their own shots and can score from long range, which would help open up the floor for the Pistons’ offense. Simons’ scoring ability could provide the team with a much-needed offensive boost, especially in tight games.
A potential trade involving Tim Hardaway Jr., whose expiring contract would give the Blazers financial flexibility, combined with a young prospect like Ron Holland from the 2024 draft, could make this deal attractive for both sides. The Pistons would get a proven scorer in Simons, while the Blazers could reshape their roster and prepare for their next chapter.
In the end, Anfernee Simons represents a significant upgrade for the Pistons, bringing in a player who can score efficiently and help lead the team into the future. His ability to stretch the floor and take on scoring responsibilities could be the key to transforming the Pistons into a competitive squad in the Eastern Conference.
3. Tre Mann
Potential Trade Offer To The Hornets: Paul Reed, 2027 First-Round Pick
Tre Mann is making a name for himself with the Charlotte Hornets this season. Currently, he is averaging 20.5 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 3.3 assists per game, showcasing his scoring ability and versatility on the court. He has played four games this season, shooting 44.6% from the field and 42.9% from three-point range, hitting an impressive 3.0 three-pointers per game.
In his recent games, Mann has had some standout performances. On October 30, he scored 27 points with 4 rebounds and 2 assists against the Toronto Raptors. A few days earlier, he dropped 19 points against the Miami Heat while contributing 4 assists and 1 steal. His performance against the Atlanta Hawks was also notable, where he registered 17 points, 4 rebounds, and 1 steal. This scoring ability is becoming crucial for the Hornets as they look to build around young talent.
Mann’s strong start to the season comes at a time when the Hornets are trying to find their identity with their star player, LaMelo Ball, coming back from last season’s injury. His role has expanded significantly after a great preseason, allowing him to showcase his scoring and playmaking abilities. As he becomes more established, he could very well solidify himself as a core player for the franchise moving forward.
For the Detroit Pistons, acquiring Mann would create an exciting backcourt pairing alongside Cade Cunningham. Mann’s ability to score and create his own shot would be invaluable, providing the Pistons with another scoring threat to complement Cunningham’s playmaking skills.
The proposed trade of Paul Reed and a 2027 first-round pick offers the Hornets a promising young player and future assets to aid in their rebuilding efforts. Reed’s defensive capabilities could be a nice addition to the Hornets, who are looking to solidify their roster.
