Pistons and Kings trade guards and picks in pre-deadline move

The bigger deals have yet to take shape but the Detroit Pistons and Sacramento Kings found a smaller swap that works for both sides.

While we’re waiting for the real fireworks to being, the Detroit Pistons and Sacramento Kings quietly completed a low-level swap that could pay dividends for both sides. According to ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, the Kings have sent Cory Joseph and a pair of second-round picks to the Pistons in exchange for Delon Wright.

The picks the Pistons will acquire are the Lakers’ 2021 second-round pick in this year’s draft and the Kings’ own pick in 2024. Neither is likely to have much value but, especially the Lakers’ pick this season, but they could be packaged with other assets for something more valuable down the road.

Was the Pistons-Kings trade a win-win?

The stakes are fairly low in this deal, fringe pieces for two teams well outside the playoff picture. But it’s still likely a positive for both sides. The Pistons are in the process of remaking their roster and Wright is unlikely to play a role in their future. Both Joseph and Wright are under contract for next season but Joseph’s deal is only partially guaranteed, meaning the Pistons can save a good chunk of money and free up cap space this summer by eventually waiving Joseph. They also pick up a pair of picks for their trouble.

For the Kings, they upgrade their backcourt depth with a player who is bigger, more versatile, a better defender and a year younger. Wright has averaged 10.4 points, 5.0 assists, 4.6 rebounds and 1.6 steals per game this season and, at 6-foot-5, is capable of defending three positions while playing either guard spot on offense.

There could be more deals to come for both the Pistons and Kings as the trade deadline approaches but this is a positive start.