Pistons Strengthen Squad, Eye Trade for Scoring Help

Detroit, MI — The Detroit Pistons are looking to boost their offense as they begin the 2025-26 NBA season with impressive performances, currently holding an 8-2 record atop the Eastern Conference. Pivotal to their success is Cade Cunningham, who is on track to validate his All-NBA status.

Cunningham has been on fire this November, averaging 28.3 points, 12.0 assists, and 4.7 rebounds over the last three games while leading the team to victories. However, the Pistons’ offensive efficiency has struggled, ranking 23rd in the league, despite their third-ranked defense.

Complicating matters is Jaden Ivey, anticipated to be Cunningham’s playmaking partner, who remains sidelined due to knee surgery. With Ivey’s absence and other injuries affecting key players like Tobias Harris, the Pistons may be exploring trade opportunities to enhance their roster.

Recent discussions around a potential trade for Lauri Markkanen have surfaced, with the Pistons reportedly prepared to offer Tobias Harris, Ivey, and other assets to the Utah Jazz. Markkanen, who is excelling with a scoring average of 30.4 points and a true shooting percentage of 60.8, could significantly elevate the Pistons’ offensive threat.

Though Markkanen would not directly solve the playmaking issue, his elite scoring ability could reduce the offensive burden on Cunningham. The hope is that adding a player of Markkanen’s caliber would strategically complement the team as they push for playoff contention.

While Markkanen has expressed a preference to remain with the Jazz, circumstances surrounding the team’s performance following Walker Kessler‘s injury could prompt a reevaluation. The Jazz may be inclined to pursue long-term assets in exchange for their star forward.

As the Pistons eye potential trades to secure a scoring boost, league executives have begun to speculate on players who could fit into their plans, including possible names not typically associated with trade talks.

Cunningham’s historic performance continues to drive excitement for the Pistons, as they aim to solidify their competitive edge in the East through strategic roster moves.