Pistons: Analyzing 3 hypothetical NBA trade deadline deals
By Duncan Smith
Could the Detroit Pistons trade for KZ Okpala at the NBA trade deadline?
Wayne Ellington has ranged from excellent to “laser-wielding alien from outer space” in the shooting department this season. He can’t give you a whole lot beyond great and consistent shooting, but for a contender looking to stock up in that category, Ellington might be just the ticket.
The Miami Heat are more than familiar with Ellington, having had him on South Beach once before, and there’s no doubt that they’d love to get him back if the price is right.
As for what the Pistons get back, let’s take a look at the proposed deal.
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The proposed deal between the Pistons and Heat
Detroit gives up:
- Wayne Ellington
Miami gives up:
- KZ Okpala
- 2022 PHI/DEN second-round pick
Okpala is a second-year prospect, selected 41st overall by the Heat in the 2019-20 NBA draft. He has played just 25 games this season for Miami, and his appearances have been intermittent through much of the campaign.
He doesn’t have the high pedigree that Weaver seems to like in his reclamation projects, but if the Pistons could get him for the low price of a Wayne Ellington who absolutely must go, it’s hard to see a downside here.