These are the dog days of the NBA’s summer. The news cycle is moving slowly. There isn’t much to report. Sure, there are rumors.
You’ve probably heard them all. Damian Lillard, James Harden, and Pascal Siakam may join new teams. Otherwise, there isn’t much happening. Even free agency has dried up – for the most part.
P.J. Washington is still available. At this point, he’s the best free agent on the market. Meanwhile, it isn’t clear if the Charlotte Hornets have any intention of retaining him. If they don’t, they might want to find a partner for a sign and trade. How about the Detroit Pistons?
The Trade Proposal
Charlotte Hornets Receive: G/F Alec Burks, G Killian Hayes
Detroit Pistons Receive: F/C P.J. Washington
On the other hand, the entire summer isn’t as slow as it’s been lately. Just a short while ago, there was plenty of intrigue. Specifically, there was much to discuss about the NBA Draft.
The Hornets were at the center of much of that discourse. They had the second overall selection in the draft. Many fans and analysts alike thought Scoot Henderson was the obvious choice. The Hornets went with Brandon Miller. It was a controversial decision that inspired a lot of conversation.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: PJ Washington, Charlotte Hornets & Detroit Pistons Updates
By contrast, the Pistons didn’t have as many options. This organization finished 2022-23 with the worst record in the NBA. With that in mind, their fanbase was disappointed when they fell to fifth in the draft – the worst possible outcome. Would acquiring Washington do anything to offset that pain?
Why The Detroit Pistons Do The Deal
With that fifth pick, the Pistons went with Ausar Thompson. That was a fine choice. The Pistons need a wing, and many felt that Thompson was the best prospect available.
After all, he’s an elite athlete with solid floor vision. In time, he could be an elite defender. With that said, there is one hole in Thompson’s game. His jump shot is questionable. That’s a theme with the Pistons. This team’s young core suffers from a distinct lack of floor spacing.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: PJ Washington, Charlotte Hornets & Detroit Pistons Updates
With that in mind, Washington would be the perfect acquisition. He provides plenty of spacing. Meanwhile, he’s a combo big who can man the 5 in small-ball lineups. Those formations will allow Detroit to play some of their poorer shooting prospects on the floor at the same time. Should the Hornets give up such a versatile player?
Why The Charlotte Hornets Do The Deal
Washington is a restricted free agent. If he signs an offer from another team, the Hornets can match it – or not. At this point, they’ve not shown any particular eagerness to keep him on the roster.
After all, they haven’t made him an offer. Perhaps the Hornets feel like they don’t need another forward. They selected Miller, and they’ll be welcoming Miles Bridges back in 2023-24. If so, a sign and trade is better than losing Bridges for nothing.
NBA TRADES, NEWS & RUMORS: PJ Washington, Charlotte Hornets & Detroit Pistons Updates
Burks and Hayes are certainly more than nothing. The former is a useful veteran who does a little bit of everything. Burks can shoot, defend and pass. Meanwhile, Hayes has struggled relative to the expectations of a lottery pick, but he’d still suffice as a backup point guard for LaMelo Ball. This deal makes sense for both sides – now, for a long wait to see if it comes to fruition.
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