Greg Monroe rumors: Pistons, Pelicans talk trade

Jan 24, 2014; Auburn Hills, MI, USA; Detroit Pistons power forward Greg Monroe (10) drives to the basket during the third quarter against the New Orleans Pelicans at The Palace of Auburn Hills. New Orleans won 103-101. Mandatory Credit: Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 24, 2014; Auburn Hills, MI, USA; Detroit Pistons power forward Greg Monroe (10) drives to the basket during the third quarter against the New Orleans Pelicans at The Palace of Auburn Hills. New Orleans won 103-101. Mandatory Credit: Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Detroit Pistons know that if they’re to re-sign restricted free agent Greg Monroe, they’re likely going to have to pay a maximum level contract. That’s a lot of money to invest in a player who may or may not be worth such coin, which is why they’ve likely engaged in sign and trade talks with the New Orleans Pelicans.

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That’s the word from Gery Woelfel of The Journal Times who states that the Pistons have inquired about Ryan Anderson in a trade for Greg Monroe.

Now, on the surface that doesn’t seem like all that great of a return for the Pistons considering Monroe is the more talented player between the two, but Detroit also gets out of paying Greg Monroe an albatross of a contract.

If this all sounds familiar, that’s because it is. A few weeks ago there were rumors swirling suggesting that the New Orleans Pelicans had attempted to engage the Pistons in a sign-and-trade talk over Monroe, but there was never any news regarding the Pistons view on such or even if they entertained the offer.

Now however there appears to be some movement on that front, though I can’t imagine fans of the Detroit Pistons are exactly thrilled with the return.

However, if there is a silver lining, the Pistons were one of the worst three-point shooting teams in the NBA last season and have already expressed interest in signing Anthony Morrow. Add in Ryan Anderson, who’s one of the best shooting big men in the league (and has no problem shooting from downtown) and you instantly have two of the best perimeter shooters in the league on your team.

Not perfect by any stretch, but certainly a solid way to build a balanced offense.