This trade just might be the Pistons empowering a contender while also becoming much stronger than they already are as the #1 seed in the NBA.

On the Sixers side of things, they have a lineup and immediate future as a contender of Maxey, Edgecomb, George (when he returns for the playoffs), Giannis, and Paul Reed (who has shown much improvement with the Pistons). That's a very good lineup, and if healthy, they won't just be competing for the East, they'd be competing for a world championship.

Empowering the Sixers this much very well may be the holdup here for the Pistons; however, can the Pistons turn down an opportunity to improve depth and address needs while still having the TPE and not trading a single young player that they are currently invested in? The Pistons would have the bird rights of both Grimes and Drummond, who both areformer Pistons.

Grimes brings even more defense, which is the pure identity of the Pistons, and though his shooting has been down, you absolutely CANNOT leave him open. He's a pure threat, and the Pistons could use the TPE to obtain another shooter if need be. Portis brings some much-needed depth and versatility. The fact that he can play the 4 or the 5 helps with the loss of Reed. He brings similar energy and toughness, even getting into some altercations with Isaiah Stewart....Being on the same team as Stew/Duren would be dangerous for others. He could also be a starter as the Pistons slide Tobias to the bench. Also, I can see Tobias coming back another year under a very cheap contract. The Pistons could easily bring the same team back with some tweaks. Also, once the 2026 pick commences, the Pistons would have the full range to make a major move again... The possibilities are endless.

The Bucks get a pretty good return for Giannis. Not only do they obtain a player who, when healthy, is just as good as Giannis, but they also add draft capital. They wouldn't be betting on Embiid remaining healthy, but it would for sure be high-risk, high-reward to have him on the roster. He's been playing lately and his contract has some length to it, but obtaining 3 first round picks and 2 second rounders can be quite profitable. This would be a much better return than what the Mavericks got for Luka. Caris LeVert is a solid vet on a valuable contract as a player who could be moved again. This move would be a changing of the guard as they adjust.