Could Lauri Markkanen Reunite with JB Bickerstaff in Detroit? Pistons Emerge as a Potential Trade Destination
Lauri Markkanen’s name has been swirling in trade rumors for a while now, ever since his move to Utah as part of Cleveland’s reset. And while the Jazz have certainly given him room to grow - he’s blossomed into an All-Star and one of the league’s most efficient scorers - there’s growing buzz that his next chapter could bring him back into familiar hands.
No, not a return to Cleveland. But potentially a reunion with his former Cavaliers coach, JB Bickerstaff - now leading the Detroit Pistons.
According to reports, the Pistons are one of a few teams keeping tabs on Markkanen’s availability, alongside the Spurs and Grizzlies. What makes Detroit particularly intriguing is Bickerstaff’s past connection with the Finnish forward. League sources say Bickerstaff was a fan of Markkanen’s game during their shared time in Cleveland, and the mutual respect between coach and player could be a key factor if trade talks ever get serious.
A Familiar Fit
Back in Cleveland, Bickerstaff wasn’t afraid to experiment with size, deploying Markkanen in a supersized frontcourt that had some skeptics at the time. But the results spoke for themselves.
Markkanen averaged 14.8 points per game on an efficient 58.2 true shooting percentage that season, helping the Cavs double their win total from the year prior - jumping from 22 to 44 victories. That stint laid the foundation for Markkanen’s breakout All-Star campaign with the Jazz in 2022-23.
Now in the midst of a career-best season, Markkanen has solidified himself as more than just a stretch forward - he’s a legitimate offensive centerpiece. And that’s exactly why Utah isn’t in a rush to move him. Reports still frame him as a core building block for the Jazz, and it’s going to take a significant offer to get them to even consider moving him.
Why Detroit Makes Sense
Detroit, however, might have the pieces to make things interesting.
While the Pistons aren’t under pressure to make a move, they do have some flexibility - especially with Tobias Harris’ expiring contract. That kind of salary ballast could help facilitate a deal. More importantly, Detroit has a growing stable of young talent and future assets that could appeal to a Utah team still shaping its long-term identity.
Pairing Markkanen with Cade Cunningham would instantly elevate the Pistons’ offensive ceiling. Cunningham’s playmaking and Markkanen’s scoring versatility could form one of the more dynamic young duos in the Eastern Conference. And with Bickerstaff already knowing how to maximize Markkanen’s skill set, the transition could be smoother than most midseason additions.
The Ripple Effect in the Central Division
If this deal were to materialize, it wouldn’t just be a win for Detroit - it could also shift the balance of power in the Central Division.
The Cavaliers, already slipping behind their divisional rivals, would have to watch a former player - one they once helped develop - potentially thrive in a system that knows how to use him. And with Cleveland facing second apron restrictions, their ability to respond with a major move of their own is limited. That financial constraint could widen the gap between the two franchises, leaving the Cavs scrambling to keep pace in a competitive Eastern Conference.
Bottom Line
Markkanen isn’t on the market - not officially, anyway. But the Pistons have the coach, the cap flexibility, and the young core to make a compelling pitch if Utah ever opens the door. It would take a serious package to pry him away, but the potential upside for Detroit is hard to ignore.
For now, it’s just smoke. But if the Pistons make a move, don’t be surprised if it’s one that reunites a coach and player who already know how to win together.