Pistons predicted to make blockbuster trade for $150 million two-time Finals MVP to create Big Three with Cade Cunningham, Jalen Duren
TL;DR
The Detroit Pistons are predicted to trade for Kawhi Leonard, a two-time Finals MVP, to form a Big Three with Cade Cunningham and Jalen Duren. This move aims to enhance their chances of winning the NBA championship.
Key points
- Pistons lost in the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs
- Predicted trade for Kawhi Leonard from the Clippers
- Kawhi Leonard is a two-time Finals MVP
- Trade aims to create a Big Three with Cade Cunningham and Jalen Duren
- Leonard's salary is $150 million
Pistons predicted to make blockbuster trade for $150 million two-time Finals MVP to create Big Three with Cade Cunningham, Jalen Duren originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The Detroit Pistons just suffered a big loss in the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs, losing the opener against the Orlando Magic. If the Pistons arenāt able to figure things out and become early exits, they could take some drastic measures this offseason.
Bleacher Reportās Dan Favale believes so as well, and predicts the Pistons could trade for Los Angeles Clippers superstar Kawhi Leonard. Leonard has championship experience as a two-time Finals MVP, and would bring the scoring and defense Detroit needs in order to lift the Larry OāBrien trophy.
āKawhi could prove to be an ideal target for the Detroit Pistons if their postseason ends in disappointment. He soups up both the primary and secondary offense, and his salary comes off the books (and should get cheaper moving forward) just as they're shelling out big money for all three of Cade Cunningham, Jalen Duren (restricted) and Ausar Thompson,ā Favale wrote.
This past season, Leonard averaged 27.9 points, 6.4 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 1.9 steals in 32 minutes per game. Adding him to a starting five with Cade Cunningham and Jalen Duren, and they could have the best team in the Eastern Conference, hands down.
The only two problems come with acquiring him. The Pistons would have to find a way to handle his $50 million per year contract, which also could be a one-year rental. On top of that, they would have to give up years of assets to land such a star.
As long as they are comfortable with that though, getting Leonard seems like a no-brainer. Especially if their team doesn't even make the conference finals.
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Q&A
What trade is the Detroit Pistons expected to make for Kawhi Leonard?
The Pistons are predicted to make a blockbuster trade for Kawhi Leonard to strengthen their roster.
How much is Kawhi Leonard's contract worth?
Kawhi Leonard's contract is valued at $150 million.
Who are the key players in the Pistons' potential Big Three?
The key players in the Pistons' potential Big Three are Kawhi Leonard, Cade Cunningham, and Jalen Duren.
