DETROIT — The NBA trade deadline for the 2025-26 season is just one week away. This year is anticipated to be significant, as several high-profile players might be on the move, headlined by Giannis Antetokounmpo, Anthony Davis and Jonathan Kuminga.
As the top seed in the Eastern Conference with a strong chance to compete for the Larry O’Brien Trophy this summer, several players have been linked to the Detroit Pistons ahead of the deadline. Like last season, the Pistons are likely to make another quiet yet impactful move.
The Pistons need to improve their subpar 3-point shooting and find a reliable secondary perimeter scoring option. Pistons beat writer Coty M. Davis analyzes three under-the-radar targets Detroit should consider pursuing ahead of the NBA’s Feb. 5 deadline.
Trey Murphy III, New Orleans Pelicans
Brooklyn Nets’ Michael Porter Jr. is at the top of many fans’ wish lists as the trade deadline approaches. The primary reason for interest in Porter is the Pistons’ struggles from the 3-point line. He certainly would improve Detroit’s shooting, but the Pistons could acquire a player who is not only a sharpshooter but also embodies the team’s identity through strong defensive abilities.
Trey Murphy III has developed into one of the league’s most respected 3-and-D players. While averaging 22.3 points on 38.1% shooting from behind the arc, Murphy is a reliable secondary scorer whose offensive attributes are ideal because he doesn’t need the ball in his hands to be effective. This season, Murphy is shooting 42.4% on catch-and-shoot 3-pointers, which would fit well in the Pistons’ offensive system.
In addition, Murphy has made major strides on defense since his rookie season in 2021-22. At 6-foot-8, he can guard multiple positions and possesses the same energy and hustle that fit Detroit’s defensive identity.
Basketball players
New Orleans Pelicans forward Trey Murphy III (25) reacts after a 3-point basket against the Los Angeles Lakers during the first half of an NBA basketball game in New Orleans, Tuesday, Jan. 6, 2026. (MATTHEW HINTON — AP Photo, file)
While Porter has improved his defensive skill set, Murphy offers greater potential. A defensive lineup that features Murphy, Isaiah Stewart, and Ausar Thompson would wreak havoc across the league from now until early to mid-June.
A trade for Murphy would require the Pistons to offer draft picks and at least two of their young players, but the 25-year-old wing also aligns well with Detroit’s timeline.
DeMar DeRozan, Sacramento Kings
Outside of a possible trade for Ja Morant, the Sacramento Kings could be major sellers at the trade deadline. The Kings have several players who can help elevate the Pistons during the second half of the season. Considering their cautious approach, pursuing DeMar DeRozan would be the best choice.
DeRozan is the cheapest option in terms of salary among the promising assets the Kings have, which include Zach LaVine ($48.9 million) and Domantas Sabonis ($45.4 million). DeRozan has a projected $12 million left on his contract for this season. Next year, he will be on an expiring deal for $25.7 million. Given DeRozan’s age of 36, acquiring him in a trade would require minimal assets, preserving the Pistons’ future flexibility.
On the court, however, DeRozan has proven that he still possesses the talents of being a second high-level scorer to pair next to Cade Cunningham. The six-time All-Star is still one of the most efficient mid-range scorers, shooting 48.6% on shots taken between 8 to 24 feet.
Across 46 games this season, DeRozan has averaged 18.9 points on 50.6% shooting from the floor. It is also worth noting DeRozan’s experience as a 17-year veteran would be beneficial to Detroit in the playoffs, as they look to make a deep postseason run.
Collin Sexton, Charlotte Hornets
Bickerstaff once referred to Collin Sexton as a “bucket-getter.” This was not merely an observation of Sexton’s skills from an opponent; it stemmed from their time together in Cleveland. Both Bickerstaff and Sexton hold a mutual respect for each other, and if the right opportunity arises, acquiring the former lottery pick could benefit the Pistons significantly.
The Pistons would have a chance to add a guard who can create his own shots in addition to Cunningham. With a career average of 18.5 points, he has the potential to be a three-level scorer. He has played a role in helping the Charlotte Hornets stay relevant this season, averaging 14.9 points on .493/.385/.875 shooting splits off the bench.
Sexton also possesses the intangibles to take the helm as a secondary playmaker, averaging 3.9 assists per game. His feisty, competitive on-court spirit would also enhance Detroit’s perimeter defense.
The Pistons currently have a logjam at the guard position. Any moves they make before the deadline will likely involve trading Jaden Ivey, who is struggling to find playing time despite recently revealing he is no longer on a minutes restriction.