Detroit Pistons Kick Off Trade Deadline Moves with Acquisition of KJ Martin Jr.

As the 2025 NBA trade deadline approaches, the Detroit Pistons have made their first in-season deal, adding athletic forward KJ Martin Jr. from the Philadelphia 76ers. This move is part of the Pistons’ continued strategy to stay competitive while maintaining financial flexibility under the leadership of first-year president of basketball operations, Trajan Langdon.

The Pistons, who are currently tied for sixth in the Eastern Conference with a 25-25 record, have kept their focus on building through disciplined decision-making. They remain the only team with $14 million in cap space, providing them with an opportunity to make further moves leading up to Thursday’s 3 p.m. deadline.

On Wednesday, Detroit agreed to acquire Martin, 24, along with two second-round picks. The 6-foot-6, 215-pound forward has an $8 million nonguaranteed contract for the 2025-26 season. Before a foot injury sidelined him since Christmas, Martin was averaging 6.4 points and three rebounds in 24 games with the 76ers. Known for his elite athleticism and versatility, Martin can impact both ends of the floor and has the potential to knock down open corner 3-pointers. He was originally drafted by the Houston Rockets with the 52nd overall pick in the 2020 NBA Draft.

This acquisition aligns with the Pistons’ strategy to bring in talent that can develop alongside their young core, especially as the team navigates a competitive season. Despite their mid-tier standing in the Eastern Conference, the Pistons are actively exploring opportunities to improve their roster and strengthen their playoff push.

Pistons’ Trade Needs:

Ahead of the deadline, the Pistons have identified three key areas where they could improve:

• Secondary/Veteran Ballhandler: Potential target: Malcolm Brogdon (Washington Wizards)
• Frontcourt Shooting: Potential target: Bobby Portis (Milwaukee Bucks)
• 3-and-D Wing: Potential target: Torrey Craig (Chicago Bulls)

As the Pistons look to balance their financial flexibility with team needs, the next few days will be crucial in determining how they move forward in strengthening their roster.

Potential Trade Assets:

Several Pistons players could be involved in future trades. Among those with value are:

• Malik Beasley
• Tim Hardaway Jr.
• Isaiah Stewart

Hardaway Jr., who has been hitting 37.4% of his 3-point attempts this season, could be an attractive trade asset due to his floor-spacing ability and expiring $16.2 million contract. While Detroit’s front office will evaluate the best course of action, both Hardaway and Beasley have played vital roles, and any decision to move them would require careful consideration.

Stay updated on all the latest Pistons news and trade rumors as we head into the final stretch before the 2025 NBA trade deadline.