NBA Trade Deadline 2018: 5 trades to rescue Kemba Walker

1. Detroit Pistons: Reggie Jackson, Stanley Johnson, Luke Kennard and Detroit’s 2018 second-round pick for Kemba Walker and Marvin Williams

Detroit is open about their desire to get off of Reggie Jackson’s long-term deal. Jackson has underperformed since signing an extension with the Pistons, at times being outplayed by backup Ish Smith. Walker would be an immediate upgrade, a perfect example of the kind of player coach Stan Van Gundy wants at the point guard spot. The Pistons are also in the middle of a playoff push and would love the security Walker offers for that race.

Fortunately, with guys like Kennard, Johnson and even Henry Ellenson, Detroit has a stable of former lottery picks that would appeal to Charlotte. They all make around the same amount of money. It’s just a guess, but after losing Walker’s playmaking in this deal, Johnson and Kennard get the closest as eventual replacements. Johnson in particular is perpetually on the brink of a breakout. He is one of the best prospects Charlotte could reasonably expect to fetch in a Walker trade.

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Williams fits in Detroit as a stretchy big with enough secondary skill (defensive versatility and presence at the rim) to earn heavy minutes from Van Gundy. Not every team is in the position to sacrifice future talent at the expense of immediate rotation contributors, but because of the awesome fit and organizational pressure to succeed, Detroit could easily convince themselves into a deal like this.