While the Cavaliers initially targeted a big 3-and-D wing in exchange for Okoro, trade the young wing for a long-term backup center to fill a missing frontcourt rotation. Neither the Pistons nor the Cavaliers would likely include any trade assets in a deal, making a one-for-one swap the best path to a trade. Where the Cavs lack frontcourt options, the Pistons have a slight abundance of them.
The Philadelphia 76ers let Paul Reed go in free agency, and the Pistons quickly picked him up. With Jalen Duren emerging as a star, Isaiah Stewart’s role in Detroit could be in question this season. The Pistons still need a bigger defensive presence, which makes losing a wing like Okoro a good thing.
Last season, the Pistons ranked 25th in the league in defensive rating, making him their biggest need this summer. Okoro offers an immediate upgrade as a power forward and a tenacious talent overall. Giving Okoro another chance to prove himself as a starting-caliber wing in Detroit could be a perfect fit for the Pistons and Okoro.
Is leaving Okoro worth Stewart joining the Cavaliers?
