Following their unexpected success last season, the Detroit Pistons are preparing for the 2025-26 <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/basketball/nba/”>NBA season with elevated expectations. The team, which made a dramatic turnaround by reaching the playoffs as the sixth seed in the Eastern Conference after finishing last for two consecutive seasons, is exploring potential trades involving guard Jaden Ivey as part of their strategy to strengthen the roster.
Detroit’s impressive improvement was driven by new head coach J.B. Bickerstaff and the progression of young talent such as Cade Cunningham. Despite losing players like Dennis Schroder and Tim Hardaway Jr. during the offseason, the Pistons added Caris LeVert and Duncan Robinson, aiming to build on last season’s momentum amid a weakened Eastern Conference.
Potential Trade Could Send Jaden Ivey to Dallas Mavericks
Recent discussions on The Athletic’s Game Theory Podcast, hosted by Sam Vecenie and Bryce Simon, proposed a mock trade that would send Jaden Ivey from Detroit to the Dallas Mavericks in exchange for forward P.J. Washington. While the deal offers an intriguing swap of players, its fit for the Pistons raises questions.
Detroit’s forward lineup already includes Tobias Harris, Ron Holland II, Caris LeVert, and the newly acquired Javonte Green, giving the team strong depth at that position. Adding Washington would provide additional reinforcement, but many believe the Pistons would demand more to part ways with Ivey, who demonstrated his promise before a broken leg sidelined him last season.
The Pistons’ backcourt pairing of Cunningham and Ivey has been debated across the league, yet the duo proved effective last year. With Ivey’s ongoing development, it seems unlikely that Detroit would trade him unless they pursue a higher-profile star to complement Cunningham—a move that Washington’s caliber would not satisfy.
Implications for Detroit’s Future Roster Moves
This mock trade highlights the Pistons’ willingness to consider adjustments as they aim to build a competitive team. However, given Ivey’s potential and existing forward resources, Detroit may prioritize acquiring a more impactful player if they are to trade one of their young stars. The team’s decisions in the coming offseason will be crucial in shaping their trajectory in the Eastern Conference.