A massive hypothetical deal making the rounds on social media has Detroit fans doing a double-take.
NBA analyst Jake Weinbach floated a blockbuster mock trade that would send Memphis Grizzlies star big man **Jaren Jackson Jr.**to the Detroit Pistons, and the price tag is enormous.
Mock Trade Proposal:
Pistons receive:
Jaren Jackson Jr.
Grizzlies receive:
Tobias Harris
Ron Holland II
2026 first-round pick (via Detroit)
2028 first-round pick (via Detroit)
2029 first-round pick swap rights
It’s the type of deal that would instantly reshape the Pistons’ timeline and signal a full commitment to winning now.
Why Jaren Jackson Jr. Is a Franchise-Changer
Jackson, 26, is one of the league’s most versatile two-way bigs. A former Defensive Player of the Year and multi-time All-Defensive selection, he brings elite rim protection, floor spacing, and switchability. This season, he’s averaging nearly 19 points per game while anchoring one of the NBA’s toughest defensive fronts.
Pairing him with Cade Cunningham would give Detroit a legitimate star duo, one who can score at all three levels and erase mistakes on the other end of the floor.
Why the Cost Is So Steep
Memphis wouldn’t move a player like Jackson without demanding a king’s ransom. Two unprotected first-round picks, a swap, a recent lottery talent in Ron Holland II, and a proven scorer in Tobias Harris reflects how highly the Grizzlies value their cornerstone defender.
For Detroit, it would mean:
Sacrificing long-term draft flexibility
Moving on from a key young piece
Going all-in on a competitive window right now
Does It Fit Detroit’s Timeline?
The Pistons currently sit atop the Eastern Conference standings, signaling their rebuild is officially over. Adding a defensive anchor like Jackson could turn them from a great regular-season team into a legitimate title threat.
The big question: Is this the moment to cash in future assets for an established superstar?
Because if Detroit believes their core is ready to chase banners, Jaren Jackson Jr. is exactly the type of player you overpay for, and never regret it.