Bill Simmons offers a cheaper alternative to Laura Markkanen
Detroit The Pistons are one of the hottest teams around in the Eastern Conference – and in the league – next to the Oklahoma City Thunder. Even though they have been on a hot streak, they can still find a way to get better and have the means to make a move. A star next to Cade Cunningham could take them to the next level, and Lauri Markkanen is the only player who continues to be educated.
Markkanen would be a nice piece for the Pistons, but they would have to give up a lot to get him. there is another option The Pistons could explore, and he is on the New Orleans Pelicans, according to Bill Simmons.
“I just don’t think Markkanen wins the title for them,” Simmons said on his podcast. “Like you have to go against this OKC juggernaut that might also have a top five pick. I just wouldn’t go all-in, and I like the team, and I think the team likes each other. But I think if you can steal Trey Murphy and not mortgage everything, I think you have to think about it.”
Simmons and Zach Lowe then discussed what a trade would look like for Murphy.
“Probably the first two or three, right? The first one is good,” Simon said.
“And I have to throw someone in. Like Ivy or Holland,” Lowe replied.
It would be a good deal for the Pistons, especially for what Murphy can bring to the team. He’s a good defender who can shoot the ball well, and he’s trying to keep the Pelicans going this season. Unfortunately, his efforts have not paid off, as they are near the bottom of the Western Conference.
Murphy’s cap hit is $25 million this year after signing a four-year, $112 million contract, while Markkanen makes $46 million a year after signing a four-year, $195 million deal. The Pistons could definitely go the cheaper route.
If the Pelicans continue to lose, they may end up putting some of their players on the trade block, and the Pistons have the assets and young players to make a competitive offer. Not sure if that’s the exact move that puts them over the top, but it’s a start.
2025-11-21 17:29:00
