The Detroit Pistons are preparing for the trade deadline, and one move they are likely considering is moving Reggie Jackson and his contract.
The Detroit Pistons have an interesting decision on their hands. When they traded, and subsequently signed Reggie Jackson to his massive extension, he was a young player coming into his prime and ready to take the next step. Unfortunately, in the seasons since he was given that deal, he has declined to the point that he grades out below replacement-level players despite being paid as a top-20 point guard in the NBA.
Additionally, Jackson has another full season left on his deal, which makes trading him all the more difficult. While trading Jackson would give the team cap space for this summer that it desperately needs, the only point guard under contract for next season is rookie Bruce Brown Jr. Brown has played well, but he doesn’t look quite ready to be a starter in this league. Jackson at least gives the team a body to soak up minutes at the position
As with most trades, there are both positives and negatives to it. The Pistons will be evaluating both sides as they approach the deadline, but they may have to wait until this summer to get his contract off the books. They could get creative by tying him to swingman Reggie Bullock in a trade, but the majority of teams looking for Bullock’s services won’t have the necessary cap space. Without further delay, let’s examine some of those aforementioned pros and cons.