If the Detroit Pistons are serious about accelerating their rebuild and adding some veteran punch to their young roster, a reunion with Jerami Grant could be a move worth exploring. The Portland Trail Blazers forward is having a quietly strong season, and while he may not be the blockbuster name that turns every head, he brings something Detroit sorely needs: reliable scoring, defensive versatility, and playoff experience.
Let’s unpack what that could look like - and why it might make sense.
Jerami Grant: A Familiar Face, Still Producing
Grant spent two seasons in Detroit from 2020 to 2022, and while those years were more about development than winning, he left a strong impression as a go-to option. Fast forward to this season in Portland, and he’s continued to show that he can be a consistent contributor.
Through 26 games (14 starts), Grant is averaging 20.0 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 2.7 assists in 30.3 minutes per game. He’s shooting 43.6% from the field and a sharp 38.9% from three on 6.4 attempts per night - that’s not just solid, it’s efficient volume from deep.
He’s been dealing with some Achilles soreness, but he’s currently day-to-day - not a long-term concern at this point. And while the Blazers are clearly leaning into a youth movement, Grant’s name has surfaced in trade chatter ahead of the deadline. That opens the door for Detroit to consider bringing him back into the fold.
What Would Detroit Have to Give Up?
Here’s where things get interesting. To make the math work and offer something Portland would actually consider, the Pistons would likely have to part with one of two names: Jaden Ivey or Tobias Harris.
Let’s start with Ivey. The 2022 lottery pick has had an uneven sophomore season.
His development hasn’t taken the leap many hoped for, and with a contract extension looming, Detroit has to decide how much they believe in his long-term upside. Trading him now would be a bet on their timeline - prioritizing immediate impact over potential.
Then there’s Harris. He’s been one of the Pistons’ steadiest veterans the past two seasons, and even though he’s on an expiring deal, he’s still playing a key role. Moving him would be tougher from a chemistry and leadership standpoint, especially with Detroit eyeing a playoff push.
But if the Pistons wanted to get creative, a package involving Ivey and Caris LeVert could make the numbers work. It’s not a headline-grabbing blockbuster, but it’s the kind of pragmatic move that could elevate Detroit’s floor - and maybe even raise their ceiling in a wide-open Eastern Conference.
Why Grant Fits What Detroit Needs
This isn’t just about nostalgia. Grant fills real gaps for the Pistons.
He can defend multiple positions, stretch the floor, and create his own shot. He’s also comfortable playing a secondary or tertiary role, which makes him a seamless fit alongside Cade Cunningham and the rest of Detroit’s young core.
Off the bench or as a spot starter, Grant gives Detroit another weapon in a conference where depth often separates the good from the great. He’s not a savior, but he’s the kind of player who can help you win a playoff series - and that’s not something you can say about every 20-point scorer.
A Small Move With Big Implications
Let’s be clear: trading for Grant wouldn’t be a franchise-altering blockbuster. But it would be a signal that Detroit is ready to start playing real basketball again - not just waiting for the next draft pick to pan out.
It’s the kind of move that says, “We’re done being patient. We’re ready to compete.”
And if Portland is willing to listen, the Pistons should absolutely pick up the phone.