Perfect trade deadline targets will be waiting for Pistons to pounce

The Detroit Pistons, lacking depth behind power forward Tobias Harris who is on an expiring contract next season, are anticipated to seek his replacement and could pursue a trade at next year's deadline, similar to their acquisition of Dennis Schroder last season which aided their playoff push. Potential targets include players approaching free agency in 2026 who could provide an impact for a potential Pistons playoff run.

Among the options, Jarace Walker of the Indiana Pacers is noted. Following significant roster changes for the Pacers (including Tyrese Haliburton's injury and Myles Turner's departure in free agency), Walker's future is uncertain. The Pacers hold a team option on Walker by the end of October; if not picked up, he could become inexpensive depth for the Pistons, having averaged six points and three rebounds while shooting 40% from three-point range on limited attempts last season.

The article also questions Pascal Siakam's situation with the Pacers, wondering if the team will pay him $45 million during a potential "gap year." While acknowledging Siakam's proven high-level performance, it expresses uncertainty about whether the Pistons would want his contract.

Other potential power forward targets mentioned include Tari Eason of the Houston Rockets, who will face increased competition for minutes and is heading towards restricted free agency unless extended. Eason is seen as a culture fit aligned with Detroit's core timeline. P.J. Washington of the Dallas Mavericks is highlighted as a tough defender capable of playing both big man spots and spacing the floor, fitting a Pistons need. Although Washington is on an expiring contract and Dallas wants to win, underperformance could make him available via trade, potentially fitting into a Pistons trade exception.