The Detroit Pistons are reportedly eyeing Herb Jones as a potential trade target ahead of the deadline-but when you take a closer look, this move doesn’t quite align with what the team actually needs right now.
Let’s start with what Jones brings to the table. He made his name as a high-level 3-and-D wing just a couple of seasons ago, earning All-Defensive First Team honors in 2024 while knocking down 42% of his threes.
That version of Jones would’ve been a dream fit for just about any team. But since then, the picture’s changed.
He’s struggled to stay healthy-playing just 20 games last season and appearing in only 23 so far this year-and his shooting has cooled off in a big way. Over the past two seasons, he’s hitting just 32% from deep.
That’s a tough sell for a Pistons team that’s already starving for shooting. Cade Cunningham is doing everything he can to carry the offense, but defenses are loading up on him because they don’t respect Detroit’s perimeter threats. Adding another inconsistent shooter like Jones could make spacing even worse, and that’s the last thing this offense needs.
Defensively, Jones still holds value. He’s long, switchable, and instinctive on that end.
But the Pistons aren’t exactly hurting for wing defenders. Between Ausar Thompson, Ron Holland II, and Javonte Green, Detroit already has a solid rotation of athletic, defensive-minded wings.
Jones might be more polished than some of those guys, sure-but he doesn’t solve the core issue. The Pistons’ biggest problem isn’t stopping teams on the wing; it’s generating consistent offense in the halfcourt.
There’s also the injury factor. Jones has missed significant time in back-to-back seasons, and that’s not something Detroit’s front office is likely to overlook.
Since Trajan Langdon took over, the Pistons have been cautious about acquiring players with spotty health records. Even though Langdon was involved in drafting Jones back in New Orleans, it’s hard to imagine him pushing for a reunion now, given the recent durability concerns.
So where does that leave Detroit? Instead of doubling down on defense and hoping the offense figures itself out, the smarter play would be to target a shooter-someone who can stretch the floor for Cade and open up driving lanes.
The Pistons have built a strong defensive identity, and that foundation doesn’t need to be overhauled. What they need is balance.
A knockdown shooter or a reliable offensive connector could be the missing piece that elevates this team from scrappy to dangerous.
And if that kind of player isn’t available before the deadline? Standing pat might not be the worst outcome.
The development of the young core-Cade, Jaden Ivey, Jalen Duren, and Ausar-has been one of the bright spots in Detroit’s rebuild. This group is growing, and sometimes the best move is letting that growth continue without forcing a short-term fix.
Herb Jones is a solid player. But for where the Pistons are right now-and where they’re trying to go-he’s just not the right fit.