Detroit Pistons: Examining the best trade partners for Andre Drummond

LA Clippers

The LA Clippers improved so much in the offseason that they have been in the championship discussion ever since Kawhi Leonard signed and the news of the Paul George trade broke. They have not quite lived up to expectation as they are sitting fourth in the Western conference.

While they have beaten the Lakers both times they have played them this year, they have an Achilles’ heel, defending the opposition big man. This is where Drummond would make a massive difference to this line up.

In order to get Drummond the Clippers are not going to give up any of their big four. Leonard, George, Lou Williams and Montrezl Harrell are all key players for this team. There was noise about Harrell being traded  earlier in the season, but there has been nothing lately.

They have to give something up though and Patrick Beverley would be the starter that the Clippers would be most willing to trade. He is a step up from Bruce Brown and with two seasons left on his contract it might allow the Pistons to move on from the oft-injured Reggie Jackson.

Ivica Zubac would have to part of the return package He is averaging 8.2 points and 6.8 rebounds per game so while his production is not the same as Drummond but he is shooting 60.3 percent so is solid inside. He is also on a team friendly contract through the end of the 2022-23 season.

Maurice Harkless is a 6’7″ small forward averaging 5.5 points and 4.0 rebounds. He is on an expiring contract and will give the Pistons some room to move next season. If he works out they can re-sign him or simply let him walk.