The Detroit Pistons are enjoying one of their most promising seasons in recent memory. The young core is starting to click, and there's a noticeable energy around the team that hasn’t been felt in years. But as exciting as this resurgence is, Detroit still finds itself a step behind the Eastern Conference’s top-tier contenders-teams with deeper playoff résumés and more battle-tested rosters.
That gap, however, isn’t insurmountable. And with the trade deadline approaching, the Pistons have a rare opportunity to make a move that could not only elevate their ceiling but also inject some much-needed championship pedigree into the locker room.
Why Kyrie Irving Could Be the Missing Piece
Yes, Kyrie Irving is still just 33 years old. And yes, he’s currently rehabbing from a torn ACL. But when healthy, he remains one of the most skilled guards in the league-an elite shot-maker with a deep playoff résumé and a history of delivering under pressure.
The Mavericks, his current team, are in a tough spot. They're on the outside looking in when it comes to the playoff picture, and even a late-season surge might not be enough to push them into serious contention. That opens the door for a potential shakeup, and Kyrie could be one of the names on the move.
According to ESPN’s Tim Bontemps, Irving would be an ideal target for Detroit. Bontemps floated the idea that the Pistons should at least explore his availability, saying, “The guy that I really want the Pistons to get-who they probably can’t get, and I don’t know what his health status would be-the guy they need is Kyrie Irving.”
And there’s logic behind the suggestion. Pairing Cade Cunningham with a proven veteran like Kyrie could be a game-changer. Cunningham has all the tools to be a franchise cornerstone, but giving him a backcourt partner who’s been to the mountaintop-who’s hit that shot in the Finals-could accelerate both his development and the team’s trajectory.
Let’s not forget, Irving was instrumental in Cleveland’s 2016 championship run alongside LeBron James and more recently played a key role next to Luka Dončić during the Mavericks’ trip to the NBA Finals. He’s not just a name; he’s a proven postseason performer.
The Contract and the Cost
Irving is under contract through at least next season, with a player option for the 2027-28 campaign. He’s set to earn $39.5 million annually-a hefty number, but not outrageous when you consider the going rate for All-Star guards with championship experience.
There are, of course, valid concerns. Health is the biggest one.
Coming off a major knee injury, there’s no guarantee he returns to form. But for a Pistons team that’s entering what looks like the beginning of a legitimate contention window, the potential reward might outweigh the risk.
From a financial standpoint, a trade is feasible. A package involving Duncan Robinson, Jaden Ivey, Caris LeVert, and a minimum-salary player could match salaries in a deal that brings back Kyrie Irving, Dwight Powell, and Brandon Williams.
That’s just one possible construction, and whether it’s a fair deal for both sides is debatable. But the framework is there, and that’s a crucial first step.
More than likely, the Pistons would have to include draft compensation to sweeten the pot-especially if Irving’s trade value rebounds as he gets closer to returning. And if needed, a third team could be looped in to help balance the deal.
What’s Next for Dallas?
The Mavericks are facing some tough decisions. There’s growing interest around the league in several of their players, including Anthony Davis. While Davis’ name being floated adds another layer of intrigue, it’s clear that Dallas is at a crossroads.
If they decide to move on from Irving-or even Davis-it could signal the beginning of a rebuild, especially with a young star-in-the-making like Cooper Flagg waiting in the wings. The team has underperformed so far this season, and if the front office doesn’t see a path forward with the current group, this deadline could be the time to pivot.
Final Thoughts
For Detroit, this is about more than just adding talent-it’s about sending a message. A move for Kyrie Irving would tell the league that the Pistons are no longer content with being a feel-good story.
They’re ready to contend. They’re ready to take the next step.
And if Irving can return to form-and stay healthy-he just might be the kind of player who helps them get there.