While the Indiana Pacers are still competing in the Eastern Conference Finals, hoping to reach the NBA Finals for the first time since 2000, most other teams have already shifted their focus to the upcoming offseason. This includes identifying potential player targets who are currently in the playoffs.
According to a recent report from Marc Stein, the Detroit Pistons have been evaluating two specific big men during the conference finals.
The Pistons are aiming to acquire a stretch five this summer. Their offensive spacing was notably limited during their opening-round playoff series, and improving spacing for Cade Cunningham and adding more shooting are top priorities. Pacers center Myles Turner and Timberwolves center Naz Reid are highlighted as potential free-agent options who fit this description, and Stein`s report suggests Detroit holds interest in both players.
Myles Turner has frequently been the subject of trade rumors throughout his career in Indiana but has recently solidified his role as a key contributor for a playoff team. Stein notes that the Pacers are expected to try and re-sign him. However, the financial aspects of the league can be unpredictable. If the Pacers seek a team-friendly deal to manage their salary cap, a team like Detroit could potentially step in with a more significant offer, likely facilitated through a sign-and-trade agreement.
Naz Reid, on the other hand, possesses a $15 million player option for next season. If he chooses to decline this option to pursue a new contract, the Timberwolves organization faces complex decisions regarding their salary structure and retaining key players. Despite Reid being a popular figure in Minnesota, the team`s financial situation could pose challenges in keeping him. Detroit, along with other interested teams, is hopeful that this financial squeeze might create an opportunity for them to acquire the versatile stretch five they are seeking.
Should neither Turner nor Reid become available, the Pistons will need to explore alternative targets. The pool of free-agent stretch bigs becomes less deep after these two, though Santi Aldama could be an interesting option for Detroit, while Brook Lopez and Chris Boucher are also considered potential free agents in this category. If General Manager Trajan Langdon isn`t satisfied with the free-agent market options, Detroit might look to the trade market.
Reports suggest the Boston Celtics might be open to discussing trades for many players outside of Jayson Tatum. While his injury history is a concern, Kristaps Porziņģis would undeniably elevate the Pistons` talent level. Nikola Vučević is reportedly available from Chicago and is coming off a strong 40.2% three-point shooting season. Orlando could also be open to trading Wendell Carter Jr. or Jonathan Isaac to alleviate their frontcourt depth. Both players had challenging shooting percentages last season but were above average from three the year before. If Detroit believes either player could rebound in a new environment, they could also be trade candidates.
Jasper Hawthorne