The Pistons are searching for a big man, and they might find him this summer.
As one of only four teams projected to have significant cap space in free agency, the Pistons are poised to make a run at former first overall pick Deandre Ayton of the Suns. The 23-year-old center might be the 'primary target' of the Pistons this offseason, according to Bleacher Report.
Ayton is averaging 16.8 points and 10.9 boards this season with a career-high player efficiency rating that ranks among the top 20 players in the NBA. He also played a key role in Phoenix's run to the NBA Finals last season and would enhance a young core in Detroit headlined by Cade Cunningham and Saddiq Bey.
That said, Bleacher Report suggests the Suns are expected to retain Ayton "despite failing to reach an extension with him before the season."
The Pistons are in need of a true big to man the front court with second-year pro Isaiah Stewart, who's undersized for a center at 6'8. Ayton is a bigger presence and a better rim protector at 6'11. The Pistons do have the 6'11 Kelly Olynyk under contract for two more seasons, but he's more of a stretch 5.
Detroit thought it had acquired some size in a trade for 7'2 forward Bol Bol earlier this week, but the deal fell through when Bol failed the Pistons' physical and was sent back to the Nuggets.
The Pistons could also acquire the young big man they reportedly covet by dealing Jerami Grant, one of the most sought-after players on the trade market. The Hawks are a 'credible destination' for Grant, per Bleacher Report, with 2020 sixth overall pick Onyeka Okungwu 'a potentially attractive' return for Detroit.
Okungwu, 21, has averaged 9.0 points and 6.3 boards in eight games this season.