The Detroit Pistons are in unfamiliar territory - and loving it. Sitting atop the Eastern Conference standings, a few games clear of the Celtics, this young squad has flipped the script on what most expected from them this season.
But don’t mistake their early success for complacency. The front office is still looking to level up, and the latest trade buzz suggests they’ve got their eyes on a major piece.
According to NBA insider Michael Scotto, the Pistons are one of two teams - the Celtics being the other - showing interest in Memphis big man Jaren Jackson Jr. And if that name sounds like a game-changer, that’s because it is.
Jackson Jr., a former Defensive Player of the Year, is averaging 18.8 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 1.4 blocks per game this season. He brings a rare blend of rim protection, floor spacing, and switchable defense - the kind of skill set that could elevate a good team into a legitimate title threat. He’s not just a shot-blocker; he’s a modern-day defensive anchor who can hold his own on the perimeter and still be a problem in the paint.
Now, to be clear, there’s no guarantee Jackson Jr. will actually be on the market. The Grizzlies’ willingness to move him reportedly hinges on the future of Ja Morant, whose injury-riddled season has cast a shadow over Memphis’ short-term outlook. If the Grizzlies decide to pivot toward a full youth movement, Jackson Jr. could become one of the most sought-after names ahead of the trade deadline.
That’s where Detroit comes in. With a roster loaded with young talent and future assets, the Pistons are in a strong position to make a compelling offer. Whether it’s high-upside prospects, draft capital, or a mix of both, Detroit has the tools to get in the room - and stay there - if Jackson Jr. becomes available.
The Pistons’ interest in adding a versatile wing like Michael Porter Jr. has also been floated, but Jackson Jr. represents a different tier of impact. He’s not just a complementary piece; he’s a foundational one. Bringing him into the fold could give Detroit a defensive backbone to pair with their emerging core - and make them a nightmare matchup come playoff time.
The Pistons are already one of the season’s best stories, but if they can land a player like JJJ, they won’t just be feel-good - they’ll be for real.