The Detroit Pistons spent years in the shadows of the Eastern Conference, but the 2024-25 season finally felt like a breakthrough. A 44-38 record, their first playoff berth in 16 years, and a six-game fight with the New York Knicks announced a franchise that is no longer rebuilding.
However, as encouraging as that step was, it may only be the beginning. The Pistons are now rumored to be in pursuit of a blockbuster deal that could accelerate their climb into true contention.
Are the Detroit Pistons Looking to Bring in Lauri Markkanen?
The Pistons are being linked to Utah Jazz forward Lauri Markkanen. The buzz gained traction after Bleacher Report identified Detroit as one of the East’s most intriguing “one move away” teams.
The Cleveland Cavaliers and New York Knicks may currently hold the upper hand in the East, but the Pistons have something special brewing. With Cade Cunningham as their steady floor general and a young, athletic core around him, they’re close enough to make noise with the right addition. That “right addition,” according to the report, is Jazz forward Markkanen.
Bleacher Report’s proposed deal would send Tobias Harris, Ron Holland, Marcus Sasser, and two unprotected first-round picks (2026 and 2028) to Utah in exchange for Markkanen.
On paper, it’s the kind of package that balances both teams’ priorities. Utah gains future capital and young prospects, while Detroit adds a 7-foot forward in his prime who can stretch the floor and tilt defenses.
Markkanen, who signed a four-year, $195,868,144 contract with the Jazz, has blossomed into a versatile offensive weapon. His 3-point efficiency is elite, but he’s also a scorer off the dribble, a cutter, and an intelligent screener.
Is Markkanen a Good Fit for the Pistons’ Squad?
In Detroit, Markkanen’s presence would clear lanes for Cunningham’s drives, facilitate Ausar Thompson’s slashing ability, and make Jaden Ivey’s scoring bursts even more punishing.
The upgrade is obvious for a team that finished 16th in offensive efficiency in 2024-25 (115 ORTG, per Statmuse). Markkanen’s gravity could sharpen their offense and transform them into a dangerous squad.
But the Pistons aren’t alone in recognizing his value. The Golden State Warriors reportedly had Markkanen high on their offseason wish list in 2024, even attempting to package him alongside Paul George in an ambitious two-star plan.
Detroit’s possible swoop on a target the West’s dynasty has been circling adds another layer of intrigue to this potential deal.
Analysts like PFSN’s Brandon Austin have already pointed out Detroit’s need for more offensive punch to make a real playoff run. Markkanen directly checks that box with 45.5 FG% and 37.1 3P% averages in his career.