Pistons Pursue Trades, Free Agents to Boost Contention

The Detroit Pistons, following a major improvement that led them to the playoffs, are targeting roster upgrades to strengthen their position in the Eastern Conference and build around star Cade Cunningham. With veterans Malik Beasley, Dennis Schroder, and Tim Hardaway Jr. entering free agency, the Pistons are weighing both trade and free agency options, including pursuits of Golden State's Jonathan Kuminga and potential deals for Jrue Holiday and Cam Johnson. The team's young core, including Ausar Thompson, Ron Holland, and Jaden Ivey, remains mostly intact, though players like Ivey and Isaiah Stewart could be traded to acquire a high-level co-star. Despite lacking a 2025 first-round pick, GM Trajan Langdon has not ruled out trading up if a valued prospect is available. The Central Division dynamics may shift if Giannis Antetokounmpo is traded from the Milwaukee Bucks, possibly easing Detroit's playoff path. Detroit's offseason strategy focuses on balancing internal development with aggressive moves to become genuine contenders.