NBA Trade Rumors: Breaking down latest DeAndre Jordan buzz, more

Detroit Pistons tried to trade Andre Drummond, Reggie Jackson

One of the big surprises of the early 2017-18 NBA campaign has been the Detroit Pistons, a team that has come out of nowhere to emerge as a contender in the East. The crazy part is that the Pistons nearly missed the change to be in this position.

According to NBA.com’s David Aldridge, Detroit had shopped both Andre Drummond and Reggie Jackson last season. There have also been numerous mentions of Drummond being on the block, even as early as a couple of months prior to the beginning of this season (via SI.com’s Jake Fischer).

Imagine had one of those trade conversations turned into something more. The Pistons may not have enjoyed the hot start that has them in the Eastern Conference playoff picture despite their current five-game losing streak. Drummond may not be enjoying a mid-career revival, boasting averages of 14.4 points, 15.3 rebounds, 4.0 assists, 1.2 blocks and 1.6 steals per game.

Put simply, Detroit rolled the dice and so far it’s paid off. That could change, as we’ve seen by this ongoing slump that may not end against the Boston Celtics on Sunday. Still, it’s an impressive chain of events for a team that’s been marred by mediocrity in recent years.

At the same time, don’t be surprised if Drummond and Jackson find themselves back on the block if things go south. It’s still early in the season, and things can change in a hurry in the NBA.