As one of the NBA’s worst teams, the Detroit Pistons don’t have a whole lot going for them this season. But Jerami Grant could be their opportunity to snag some additional assets.
The 27-year-old forward is their best player and has shown some amazing capabilities on both ends of the floor. While no trade requests have been reported, it makes sense that Detroit might want to trade him for players (or draft picks) who fit their timeline a little bit better.
Additionally, per The Athletic’s James Edwards III, teams around the league have been regularly starting conversations on the availability of the former Syracuse prospect.
For the Pistons (6-28), who are currently the league’s worst team, it isn’t expected to be a busy deadline period. However, there appears to be a significant deal to be made. Detroit, if active, will be sellers at the deadline. This is a rebuilding team with eyes on the future, so there is truly only one player who seems like an obvious trade candidate who would bring an intriguing return.
Grant came to Detroit a season ago to spread his wings as a player (among other reasons, too). He’s done that. The 27-year-old has turned heads with the Pistons, showing that he is capable of providing more offensively than he was able to show in his previous stops. Teams with championship aspirations are routinely calling Detroit about Grant’s services, sources tell The Athletic.
And while the Pistons are happy with what Grant provides both on and off the court to the organization, the franchise is currently in the business of capitalizing on its small asset pool, of which Grant takes up the most real estate.
Last season was Grant’s best as a pro, with averages of 22.3 points, 4.6 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game on 35% shooting from downtown. Needless to say, his rise to prominence has caught a lot of attention from teams around the association.
For now, it remains to be seen when and where he’ll be traded. But as the deadline draws closer, there is a greater sense that Grant will be the target of a number of teams looking to improve before the playoffs.
It will be interesting to see how it all plays out.
