Pistons Eye Prime Trade Target Following Season Opener Availability Shift
The Detroit Pistons faced a challenging start to the NBA season with a disappointing loss against the Chicago Bulls in their opening game. The lack of offensive efficiency was evident, raising concerns among fans and analysts alike. Without promising guard Jaden Ivey, who is sidelined for at least the first month of the season, the Pistons struggled with shot creation and spacing on the floor. Despite this setback, there remains hope for improvement.
Pistons Look to Trade Target After Season Opener
One potential solution for the Pistons is the acquisition of Keon Ellis, a player who could enhance their performance significantly. According to Kings insider Matt George, the Sacramento Kings view Ellis as a more replaceable asset than fans might expect. This is particularly notable given Sacramento’s recent signings of Dennis Schröder and Russell Westbrook, which have limited Ellis’s playing time to just 13 minutes in the season opener.
Why Keon Ellis Could Be the Right Fit
Keon Ellis stands out as a strong three-and-D guard, making him an ideal candidate for the Pistons. His defensive skills are impressive; last season, he averaged 1.5 steals and 0.8 blocks per game in just 24 minutes of play. Moreover, Ellis’s shooting accuracy has been remarkable, consistently exceeding 40% from beyond the arc throughout his career.
- Ellis’s shooting percentage: 42.9% from three
- Three-point attempts per 36 minutes: 6
- Current contract: $2.3 million, expiring this season
His current salary makes him a financially attractive option for the Pistons, who could potentially include players like Marcus Sasser, Javonte Green, or Bobi Klintman in a trade package, along with one or two first-round picks.
Next Steps for the Pistons
Given Ellis’s availability, it’s crucial for Pistons general manager Trajan Langdon to reach out to Sacramento. Strengthening the roster could significantly enhance Detroit’s chances for a successful season as they work to overcome the early challenges posed by their season-opening loss.
