Despite going big-game hunting this offseason, the Pistons have so far come up empty.
Trade target Kawhi Leonard reportedly wasn't open to signing an extension in Detroit and ultimately returned to Toronto. Free agent target Austin Reaves got a max contract from the Lakers before the Pistons could make a move. Trey Murphy remains an apparent target via trade -- but would cost a haul.
Could Trajan Langdon and the Pistons pivot to Kevin Durant?
They were previously linked to the Rockets star this offseason, in reported three-team trade conversations involving Detroit, Houston and Boston. That was before Jaylen Brown of the Celtics wound up in Philadelphia.
Did the Pistons miss an opportunity to get Jaylen Brown? pic.twitter.com/ufMs6eF82B
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The latest report is that Durant is interested in teaming up with Cade Cunningham, having admired Cunningham's game for several years. The respect is obviously mutual.
"If Durant becomes available in any capacity or the Rockets look at possible trades involving him either now or in the near future, the Pistons are fully expected to be at the front of the line to bid on his services," per Brett Siegel.
The report adds that the Pistons "were set on figuring out a path to land Durant, but nothing ever materialized in this three-team idea, nor did anything appear possible in brief discussions with only Houston," and includes the nugget that Durant has interest in playing with Cunningham.
If this is it for the Pistons offseason, did they do enough? pic.twitter.com/NEvR4cT12Q
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Durant would certainly fit Detroit's needs, a three-level scorer who remains one of the top players in the NBA at age 37. He's coming off a season in which he averaged 26 points and shot 41.3 percent from three in 78 games while being named second-team All-NBA.
He would add a much needed ball-handler and play-maker next to Cunningham, which the Pistons have yet to do this offseason despite adding shooters in Isaiah Joe and John Collins.
Durant is signed for two more seasons with cap hits of $43.9 million this year and $46.1 million next. Question is, what would he cost? And how would that affect the Pistons' intentions to re-sign restricted free agent Jalen Duren?
