The Detroit Pistons were one of the best stories in the NBA last season. From having the worst record in the league (and tying the longest losing streak in NBA history) during the 2023-24 season, to vaulting up to the sixth seed and a 44-38 record in 2024-25, they were a shock to fans and analysts alike.
They were only able to take the Conference Finals-bound New York Knicks to six games in the first round, but Detroit should be pleased with the progress they showed in such a short amount of time. Cade Cunningham's emergence as a true No. 1 option on a playoff team should allow fans to sleep easily at night, knowing they have a bona fide star on their hands.
Now, entering the 2025-26 season, expectations are sky-high, and Detroit should start pushing the chips in to acquire more talent around Cunningham.
Pistons Land All-Star Running Mate for Cunningham
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Defense wasn't a problem for the Pistons last season; that was something they could hang their hats on. It was the offense that limited them, and the lack of scoring options around Cunningham, which plagued them, especially against the Knicks. The Oklahoma State product has shown himself to be a prolific passer, but he needs someone he can playmake with.
Enter Lauri Markkanen, the Utah Jazz's one-time All-Star who has been stuck playing for mediocre teams his entire career. While Utah has been undergoing one of the longest rebuilds in the NBA, Markkanen has been relegated to DNPs due to the organization's attempt to better its draft position. They would be better off trading the 28-year-old star, who, quite frankly, doesn't fit their timeline anymore.
A career 18.2 points per game scorer and 37% three-point shooter, Markkanen would fit in perfectly in what was Tobias Harris' role for Detroit last season. A forward with size who is a scoring threat from all over the floor with the ability to pull up from deep at any moment.
Sai Mohan of Heavy.com [proposed](https://heavy.com/sports/nba/golden-state-warriors/trade-warriors/) the hypothetical deal:
Detroit Pistons receive: Lauri Markkanen
Utah Jazz receive: Ron Holland, Tobias Harris, Marcus Sasser, 2026 first-round pick (unprotected), 2028 first-round pick (unprotected)
While the Pistons give up some serious draft capital in this hypothetical, they're able to hang onto their youngsters with upside, such as Ausar Thompson, Jalen Duren, and Jaden Ivey. Ron Holland has shown potential, but he is a replaceable piece of the puzzle, along with veterans Harris and Marcus Sasser.
If Detroit wants to make some noise in what is projected to be a weaker Eastern Conference this upcoming season, acquiring some more offensive firepower to pair up with Cunningham should be at the top of their to-do list.