The NBA trade deadline has come and gone, and the Detroit Pistons actively participated in the flurry of activity. General Manager Trajan Langdon and his front office team demonstrated their savvy approach, addressing the team’s needs while acquiring future assets.
The Pistons’ primary goal was to secure a secondary ball handler, and they accomplished this by acquiring Dennis Schröder from the Utah Jazz. Schröder, who was recently traded from the Golden State Warriors to the Jazz, brings veteran experience and playmaking ability to Detroit’s backcourt.
What’s particularly impressive about this move is how the Pistons maneuvered within the salary cap constraints. By strategically utilizing their remaining $14 million in cap space, they could absorb Schröder’s $13 million expiring contract without compromising future flexibility.
In addition to Schröder, the Pistons acquired Lindy Waters and two second-round picks. To make room for these additions, they rerouted K.J. Martin and Josh Richardson, who were briefly acquired in separate deals, to the Jazz.
Schröder’s Impact on the Pistons
The addition of Schröder addresses a glaring need for the Pistons - a reliable ball handler who can create for others and penetrate the defense. His ability to get to the rim and make plays should significantly boost Detroit’s second unit, which has struggled without a true facilitator.
One key aspect to watch with Schröder is his rim frequency. In Brooklyn earlier this season, he had a rim frequency of around 27%, which dropped to just 9% during his brief stint with Golden State. If Schröder can replicate his Brooklyn form in Detroit, he could be a game-changer for the Pistons’ offense.
The veteran point guard’s presence should also alleviate some of the playmaking burden on Cade Cunningham and allow other players like Simone Fontecchio and Malik Beasley to focus on their strengths rather than trying to create offense for themselves and others.
Overall, this trade deadline showcased Weaver’s ability to balance short-term needs with long-term asset accumulation. By acquiring Schröder without giving up significant future assets, the Pistons have improved their roster for the remainder of the season while maintaining flexibility for the future.
For more insights and a deeper dive into the Pistons’ trade deadline moves, tune into the Locked On Pistons podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Pistons Podcast:
• Breakdown of the Pistons’ heartbreaking loss to the Cavaliers
• Cade Cunningham’s fourth-quarter heroics and overall consistency
• Ausar Thompson’s increased role as a ball handler and playmaker
