In Keith Pompey’s revelatory report on the Ben Simmons holdout, a new team surfaced in the rumor mill — Detroit. The Pistons were listed as one of six teams currently attempting to acquire the Sixers‘ beleaguered All-Star, joining Cleveland, Toronto, San Antonio, Minnesota, and Indiana.
While there has been mild speculation about Detroit as a potential landing spot, never have the Pistons been rumored as a real contender. Not until now. With the reigning No. 1 pick on board and a well-rounded young core, the Pistons are in the beginning stages of a fruitful rebuild. Could Ben Simmons be the crowning jewel?
The Pistons have reported interest in orchestrating a Ben Simmons trade with the Sixers.
Detroit finished at the bottom of the East last season. While Simmons would no doubt like to contend, there’s a good chance his priorities lie elsewhere. A recent report from The Ringer’s Kevin O’Connor suggests that Simmons views himself as a No. 1 option and potential face of the league. If so, being the centerpiece (and at least a centerpiece) of Detroit’s rebuild could be appealing.
The Pistons fit a common theme in the Simmons rumor mill: a small market looking to take the next step. Detroit is not a free agent destination, so the opportunity to trade for a player of Simmons’ caliber, with four years left on his contract, has unavoidable appeal. Even if Detroit isn’t crazy about the fit, talent alone would make Simmons a reasonable target.
If Detroit does indeed pursue Simmons via trade, here are some potential frameworks to consider.