Regardless of what the national media might say or whatever picture they might try and paint -- the Detroit Pistons are currently one of the most intriguing teams in the NBA.
One year removed from a bottom-table finish in the Eastern Conference, the Pistons are a rapidly rising team, littered with young talent.
Led by Cade Cunningham, who is averaging 25.7 points per game on the season, the Pistons are certainly one team to keep an eye on, even if they might not quite be a title-contending squad.
What is the team's avenue to becoming a contender? They could certainly elevate their ceiling with the addition of a superstar talent, though that's much easier said than done.
One player who will almost most certainly be available through a trade this offseason will be Kevin Durant, who the Phoenix Suns will likely have to move after an awkward trade deadline of nearly dealing him.
The Suns are living far under their expectations. Their only path forward might be to move Durant, and that was before the trade deadline drama.
Dec 21, 2024; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Kevin Durant (35) drives against Detroit Pistons guard Cade Cunningham (2) during the first half at Footprint Center. © Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images © Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images
Lou Williams' suggestion to Durant provides hope for Pistons
However, a superteam move might not be the direction Durant should be looking. According to Lou Williams on "Run it Back," he should try and join an up-and-coming club.
"No more superteams for KD... go somewhere where they're up and coming... With the Lakers, with the Mavs it's going to be the same old narratives."
"No more superteams for KD... go somewhere where they're up and coming... With the Lakers, with the Mavs it's going to be the same old narratives."
Lou Williams advises Kevin Durant on his potential next destination
(via @RunItBackFDTV)pic.twitter.com/D3Ed71usuv
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) March 12, 2025
The Pistons certainly fit the bill in this scenario. Durant can help elevate the squad to a contending level while Cunningham continues to run the ship, letting the superstar forward simply be himself.
While Detroit would have to weight the cost of some young talents and draft capital, it's certainly an interesting idea.
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This story was originally published March 12, 2025 at 10:23 AM.