The Detroit Pistons are a team that could have a major impact on the playoff races this NBA season. While they aren’t going to factor into the postseason picture themselves, they have a few players that could help swing the tides if trades are made.
One of the players garnering a lot of attention is veteran forward Bojan Bogdanovic. Bogdanovic was acquired by the Pistons ahead of the season from the Utah Jazz in exchange for Saben Lee and Kelly Olynyk.
It was a move that surprised a lot of people as contenders were vying for Bogdanovic but he landed with the rebuilding Pistons. His performance this season has done nothing to lessen his value, as Detroit could very easily get more for him now than it cost to acquire him from the Jazz.
As shared by Michael Scott of HoopsHype, that seems to be the case. Given the extension that he signed with the team, coupled with his level of play on the court, the asking price for Bogdanovic is increasing.
Bogdanovic, who’s averaging a career-high 21.3 points, could force a desperate playoff team looking to get over the hump to offer a lightly protected first-round pick and a good young player. He turns 34 in April and is owed $39 million over the next two seasons, which includes a partially guaranteed $2 million for the 2024-25 season.
The contending teams that were looking into acquiring Bogdanovic before he landed with the Pistons could get involved again.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Bojan Bogdanovic & Detroit Pistons Updates
The Los Angeles Lakers never stopped showing interest in him, but have been reluctant to part with one of their future first-round picks and with Rui Hachimura now in the mix, they are likely out of the running.
However, parting ways with two assets is likely something that many franchises would scoff at. The Lakers acquired Hachimura for three second-round picks and Kendrick Nunn, so there are bargains to be found out there.
LATEST NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Bojan Bogdanovic & Detroit Pistons Updates
The Phoenix Suns are a team to keep an eye on as they could use some help in the frontcourt with Jae Crowder remaining away from the team. The Dallas Mavericks could also be in the market for a wing player and the Miami Heat cannot be counted out either as their offense has tanked this season.
