Pistons’ regret grows after playing the Thunder’s newest trade acquisition

The Pistons did not make any important upgrades at the trade deadline, however the Thunder definitely did. Even as a confirmed contender and sure championship favourite, Oklahoma City dipped into their warfare chest of property to accumulate Jared McCain. And it is already paying off for them, come once more by McCain’s stable performance against the Pistons on Wednesday night time.

McCain breaking out in OKC isn’t any shock; anybody might see he nonetheless had enormous potential however it was buried on the 76ers depth chart. But the low price to accumulate it was stunning. The Thunder solely gave up a couple of draft picks – Houston’s first-rounder this 12 months and three second rounders. None of these are excessive picks, and the Pistons would’ve been sensible to trade one thing of comparable worth for a gifted shooter that is solely 22 years previous.

The Pistons might actually use somebody like McCain

With most of their starters out with damage, the Thunder turned to McCain for extra offense. He scored 20 factors off the bench and his offensive influence stood out. McCain is a fearless shooter who’s always transferring for higher appears. His movement occupies defensive consideration and opens lanes for his teammates even when he does not contact the ball.

But he is lots succesful with the ball in his arms too. He can leverage his taking pictures menace to well assault the rim. McCain has proven nice taking pictures spark off the dribble as properly and has sufficient playmaking chops to run the offense at instances. He can be an excellent choice to take some load off Cade Cunningham in a pinch or all through a playoff collection.

Instead of pursuing a powerful improve like McCain, the Pistons settled for a proactive financial move by dumping Jaden Ivey. They did obtain Kevin Huerter, a previously feared sharpshooter, in return however he was already having a down 12 months in Chicago and is not even seeing the flooring now in Detroit. Even at his greatest, Huerter can be fairly restricted past his taking pictures skill whereas McCain brings extra versatility.

McCain regarded like the favourite to win Rookie of the Year final season earlier than struggling a season-ending damage. That observe report of nice play ought to have him a major trade goal for any staff in want of extra taking pictures: a listing that ought to arguably be headlined by the Pistons. True, Detroit has discovered success this season regardless of their taking pictures woes however that weak point looms bigger towards the greatest groups. In the playoffs, having a flexible weapon like McCain might make all the distinction in a good collection.

The Pistons have a golden alternative to make a deep playoff run and even compete for a championship in a weakened Eastern Conference. Rather than resting on the laurels of their season or staying affected person, I’d’ve appreciated to see them take a worthwhile swing for a participant like Jared McCain.