Why The Detroit Pistons Do The Deal?

Well, that was the goal for the Pistons. They aren’t reaching it. This team is practically unwatchable. The Pistons look years away from competing for an NBA championship. They may want to expedite the process.

If so, Simons could be a sensible addition. Granted, he’s having a down year. That’s fine. If he wasn’t, he may cost the Pistons multiple firsts. Since he’s underperformed in 2023-24, this could be a buy-low opportunity for Detroit.

In theory, Simons would be the perfect addition to this team. Before this season, he was among the best shooters in the NBA. Simons will still have the type of three-point gravity that will make life easier for Cade Cunningham and Ausar Thompson, and he can also create his own shot.

Why The Portland Trail Blazers Do The Deal?

Simons is 24. That’s an awkward age for a team that’s newly rebuilding. The Blazers could see Simons as part of their young core. On the other hand, they could also justify viewing him as being outside of their timeline.

With Scoot Henderson and Shaedon Sharpe on the roster, that holds especially true. Sure, Henderson has struggled as a rookie – that’s to be expected from a point guard.

The Blazers still need to gamble on his upside. If Henderson doesn’t hit, this will be a long rebuild anyway. So, they’re clearing the runway for him by moving Simons. It’s worth taking a flyer on Wiseman, but the real value here is in an unprotected first. It could be an especially valuable pick if the Pistons don’t get their rebuild together soon.