The Detroit Pistons’ aggressive offseason may not be over just yet.
According to NBA insider Marc Stein, the Pistons are among the teams expressing interest in unrestricted free agent DeMar DeRozan, adding another intriguing name to Detroit’s list of potential additions as the organization continues building around Cade Cunningham.
While no deal appears imminent, the report suggests DeRozan remains firmly on Detroit’s radar.
DeRozan Still Producing at a High Level
Even at 36 years old, DeRozan continues to prove he can be an effective offensive weapon.
Last season, the six-time All-Star averaged more than 18 points and four assists per game while shooting an efficient 50 percent from the field. He also remained one of the NBA’s most dependable veterans, once again appearing in more than 75 games.
That level of durability could be especially appealing to a Pistons team looking to surround its young core with proven veterans.
Veteran Leadership Could Fill a Void
Detroit lost one of its most respected veterans earlier this offseason when Tobias Harris departed for the San Antonio Spurs.
Adding DeRozan would immediately replace much of that leadership while giving the Pistons another player with extensive playoff experience and a reputation as one of the league’s consummate professionals.
Although he is no longer in his prime, DeRozan has consistently demonstrated an ability to stabilize offenses and provide reliable late-game scoring.
Would the Fit Make Sense?
The biggest question surrounding a potential signing is how DeRozan would fit alongside Cade Cunningham.
Both players are at their best operating in the mid-range, and DeRozan has never been known as a prolific three-point shooter. On paper, that raises legitimate spacing concerns.
However, Detroit has spent much of the offseason addressing exactly that issue.
The additions of Isaiah Joe, Kevin Huerter, Gary Harris, and Taurean Prince have significantly improved the Pistons’ perimeter shooting, potentially creating enough spacing for Cunningham and DeRozan to coexist offensively.
DeRozan also brings another valuable skill the Pistons could use: the ability to consistently create his own shot. That’s an area Detroit has prioritized improving throughout the summer.
Can Detroit Afford Him?
According to the report, the answer is yes, depending on the contract.
If DeRozan is willing to sign for the right price, Detroit could reportedly add the veteran forward while still remaining below the NBA’s first tax apron and retaining enough financial flexibility to finalize a long-term contract with restricted free agent Jalen Duren.
That financial flexibility has been a cornerstone of President of Basketball Operations Trajan Langdon’s offseason strategy.
The Bottom Line
A pursuit of DeMar DeRozan may not generate the same excitement as trading for a younger superstar, but it would represent another calculated move by the Pistons.
Detroit has consistently targeted players who complement Cade Cunningham while preserving future flexibility. If the price is right, DeRozan could provide scoring, leadership, and experience without forcing the organization to sacrifice valuable assets.
Whether a deal ultimately materializes remains to be seen, but according to Marc Stein, the Pistons are at least exploring the possibility.
Richard Knight
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