The Detroit Pistons are reportedly on the verge of a significant backcourt upgrade. The franchise is in advanced trade discussions to acquire a proven scorer, signaling a proactive approach to the upcoming NBA season, and aiming to build on their recent playoff appearance.
Detroit Eyes Malik Monk as Dennis Schroder’s Successor
The Sacramento Kings reportedly opened their free agency by landing veteran point guard Dennis Schroder, who averaged 13.1 points, 5.4 assists, and 2.6 rebounds across stints with the Brooklyn Nets, Golden State Warriors, and Detroit Pistons during the 2024–25 season. While the Kings view Schroder as a stabilizing presence, some within their fan base have expressed concern about the fit, citing the team’s need for youth and pace.
In what could become one of the offseason’s earliest sign-and-trade deals, league insider Jake Fischer reports that Detroit and Sacramento are exploring a swap centered around Malik Monk. The 26-year-old combo guard is coming off a career-best season, averaging 17.2 points, 5.6 assists, and 3.8 rebounds off the bench for Sacramento.
“An emerging option for the Pistons, sources say, is Detroit trading for Kings guard Malik Monk,” Fischer noted. “Sounds like there’s a chance this deal, if agreed to, could turn into a sign-and-trade that brings Dennis Schroder to Sacramento.”
An emerging option for the Pistons, sources say, is Detroit trading for Kings guard Malik Monk. Sounds like there’s a chance this deal, if agreed to, could turn into a sign-and-trade that brings Dennis Schroder to Sacramento.
– Jake Fischer (@JakeLFischer) July 1, 2025
The potential addition of Monk would immediately address the scoring and playmaking void left by Schroder’s exit in Detroit. Monk’s explosive offensive skill set and versatility could offer the Pistons a dynamic sixth man or even a starting two-guard alongside Cade Cunningham.
While exact trade details remain speculative, a straight swap involving Monk and Schroder appears to be a realistic framework. Both players would receive new multi-year deals as part of the process.
Caris LeVert Returns to Michigan in 2-Year Deal
In a separate move to strengthen their bench, the Pistons have also reached an agreement with Caris LeVert on a two-year, $29 million contract, according to Shams Charania. LeVert returns to Michigan, where he played college basketball for the Wolverines, for the next chapter of his NBA journey.
Free agent guard Caris LeVert has agreed to a two-year, $29 million deal with the Detroit Pistons, sources tell ESPN. Mark Bartelstein of @PrioritySports and the Pistons negotiated terms of a deal that brings backcourt depth and a Michigan return. pic.twitter.com/C7KY8Arnra
– Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) June 30, 2025
The 30-year-old wing averaged 12.1 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 3.4 assists while splitting time with the Cleveland Cavaliers and Atlanta Hawks last season. Though no longer a primary option, LeVert brings veteran experience and scoring depth to a Pistons roster that finished the 2024-25 season with a 44-38 record and returned to the playoffs for the first time since 2019.
With Monk and LeVert potentially in the mix, Detroit appears intent on capitalizing on its newfound momentum heading into the new season.
