Pistons Play it Smart at NBA Trade Deadline, Strengthen Roster Without Sacrificing Future Assets

The Detroit Pistons made strategic moves during the NBA trade deadline, acquiring two guards—Dennis Schröder and Lindy Waters III—along with two future second-round picks. By staying active without disrupting their core, the Pistons maintained their long-term flexibility while bolstering their current roster.

Detroit’s deadline activity started with the acquisition of former Philadelphia 76ers wing K.J. Martin, plus two second-round picks, in exchange for absorbing his salary.

The Pistons then got involved in the high-profile four-team trade that sent Miami Heat star Jimmy Butler to the Golden State Warriors. As part of this deal, Detroit added Waters, Josh Richardson, and another future second-round pick.

Later, before the deadline closed, Pistons president of basketball operations Trajan Langdon sent Martin, Richardson, and a 2028 second-round pick to the Utah Jazz, bringing back Schröder. This final move addressed the team’s need for a backup ballhandler after Jaden Ivey’s unfortunate injury.

With these deals completed, the Pistons waived Wendell Moore Jr. to make room for Waters, capping off their roster changes.

Schröder’s Impact: A Veteran Presence for the Pistons
At 31 years old, Dennis Schröder brings a wealth of experience, having averaged 14.4 points and 5.5 assists per game this season. While his shooting numbers have fluctuated, Schröder’s strong playmaking and defense could give the Pistons a reliable option off the bench or as a secondary ballhandler alongside Cade Cunningham.

As the Pistons continue to compete in the Eastern Conference, currently sitting at 25-26 and seventh place, Schröder’s addition should help stabilize the point guard position, an area that has been a weak spot since Ivey’s injury in January.

Trade Deadline Grading
Here’s how some national outlets graded the Pistons’ moves:

• Detroit Free Press: B
  Omari Sankofa II praised the Pistons’ move, noting that Schröder is a solid and reliable veteran, particularly as a backup for Cunningham. While his shooting has been inconsistent, Schröder’s overall skill set makes him a good fit for Detroit’s rotation.
• USA TODAY: N/A
  Jeff Zillgitt didn’t offer a grade due to the relatively minor nature of the Pistons’ moves compared to the blockbuster trades involving Luka Dončić, De’Aaron Fox, and Jimmy Butler.
• The Athletic: B-minus
  Zach Harper gave the Pistons a B-minus, while Joe Vardon highlighted Detroit as a “deadline winner.” Vardon appreciated the flexibility the Pistons maintained while also improving the depth on their roster.
• ESPN: B-plus
  ESPN’s Kevin Pelton praised the Pistons for acquiring Schröder without giving up much. He acknowledged that Schröder could be a strong backup to Cunningham, and his fit in Detroit’s offense should improve as he adjusts.
• Yahoo! Sports: A
  Yahoo! Sports gave the Pistons an A for their strategic use of cap space. Acquiring Schröder without losing assets was considered a smart, low-risk move that strengthens their point guard depth.
• CBS Sports: C-plus
  CBS rated the Pistons’ trade a C-plus, citing their inability to convert cap space into a first-round pick. However, they approved of Schröder’s basketball fit with the Pistons.

Looking Ahead: A Bright Future with Flexibility
The Pistons made solid moves during the trade deadline, strengthening their roster without jeopardizing their future. With Schröder in the fold and additional draft picks secured, the Pistons are in a good position to continue developing their young core while staying competitive in the Eastern Conference.