Why the Pistons Might Pass on Austin Reaves — and Who They’re Eyeing in Trades Instead

The NBA’s free agency negotiating window is officially open, and Austin Reaves’ phone is about to light up. The 28-year-old guard has made it clear he plans to test the market after a season limited to a career-low 51 games by calf and hamstring injuries. Still, his two-way game keeps him in high demand.

According to NBA insider Marc Stein, the Brooklyn Nets and Detroit Pistons are potential suitors. But here’s where the narrative gets interesting: Detroit, it turns out, may have other plans.

Stein reported on his Substack that the Pistons are leaning toward trade additions rather than free-agent splashes to improve their shooting. The reasoning? They don’t want to complicate upcoming contract extension talks with restricted free agents Jalen Duren and Ausar Thompson. Duren, after a forgettable playoff showing, is eager to prove his value, while Thompson is on track to become one of the league’s premier defenders.

That doesn’t mean Detroit is standing pat. Names swirling in trade rumors include Lauri Markkanen, Trey Murphy III, and Michael Porter Jr. — high-volume shooters who could slot in alongside Cade Cunningham without creating cap complications for the young core.

Reaves, on the other hand, remains a tantalizing option. Pairing him with Cunningham in the backcourt sounds appealing on paper. But the Pistons seem to be prioritizing continuity and financial flexibility over a flashy free-agent signing.

For the Lakers, keeping Reaves is a clear priority. Luka Doncic has publicly stated he wants to continue playing with his close friend, and the team is expected to push hard to retain him. Stein noted there is “inherent skepticism” around the league that any team can pry Reaves away from Los Angeles.

The Nets are a wild card here. Stein also reported that Brooklyn could explore shorter-term deals if they decide to be aggressive in free agency. That approach might appeal to Reaves if he wants flexibility down the road.

For now, the Pistons’ path looks less about stealing Reaves and more about building through trades. Whether that strategy pays off — or whether they circle back to Reaves before the dust settles — is a story that’s just beginning.