The 4 outside scorers that Detroit Pistons could sign

Detroit Pistons enters the 2026-27 season with the need to find a scorer capable of relieving pressure on Cade Cunningham. The team finished last season as the best in the Eastern Conference, but Tobias Harris' departure has left an offensive void that could limit their performance in crucial moments. A player who can generate points by himself, especially from the second unit, emerges as one of the potential market priorities.

An article from Fadeaway World proposes four alternatives to bolster Detroit's offense: Michael Porter Jr., Zach LaVine, Brandon Ingram, and Shaedon Sharpe. The profiles are different, and not all respond in the same way to the Pistons' needs. While some could become a second star, others would provide scoring, speed, and imbalance without necessarily demanding a leading role. All scenarios are hypothetical and do not represent confirmed negotiations.

Michael Porter Jr., a top-tier outside threat

Michael Porter Jr. appears as the alternative with the most offensive impact. The forward averaged 24.2 points and 7.1 rebounds, with a 46.3% field goal percentage and a 36.3% three-point percentage during last season.

His ability to score from different positions would fit alongside Cade Cunningham, especially as he could punish defensive help and create space for the point guard. Porter does not need to monopolize the ball to be productive, although he can also take important shots when Cunningham rests.

The proposal suggests that Detroit acquire Porter and two first-round picks in exchange for Jalen Duren through a sign-and-trade. Porter's contract, worth $40.8 million and expiring at the end of the season, adds future flexibility, but the cost would be high: giving up Duren and a high-potential interior piece.

Zach LaVine, immediate scoring and outside shooting

LaVine is another option to add points to the roster. The shooting guard recorded 19.2 points per game last season and maintained notable efficiency from beyond the arc, with a 39% from three.

His main virtue would be the ability to create his own shots, attack off the dribble, and take on offensive responsibilities when Cunningham is off the court. In this sense, he could provide the scoring freshness that Detroit needs in the second unit, although his profile would also fit as a starter.

The proposed scenario involves sending Duren to Sacramento in exchange for LaVine and two first-round picks. The salary of $48.9 million represents a significant hurdle, although his contract expires at the end of the season. The question would be whether the offensive impact justifies committing so much salary space and giving up a young center.

Brandon Ingram, a more complete playmaker

Brandon Ingram could be a particularly interesting alternative due to his ability to score and create plays from different areas of the court. During the 2025-26 season, he averaged 21.5 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 3.7 assists, with a 47.7% field goal percentage and a 38.2% three-point percentage.

Unlike an offensive specialist, Ingram can create off the dribble, play in the post, and take on difficult possessions. This would allow him to complement Cunningham and provide Detroit with a second player capable of organizing the offense when the point guard needs a break.

The proposal suggests a direct swap between Ingram and Duren through a sign-and-trade. However, the article acknowledges that the forward is considered an important piece for the Clippers, so his availability is not confirmed.

Shaedon Sharpe, a lower-cost gamble

The most future-oriented option would be Shaedon Sharpe. The Portland player averaged 20.8 points and 4.3 rebounds last season, although his three-point shooting was at 33.7%.

Sharpe would bring explosiveness, athletic ability, and talent for scoring, especially in transition and attacking the rim. His profile could align with the idea of energizing the second unit, although he would still need to prove he can maintain stable offensive production.

The proposed trade would send Duncan Robinson and a first-round pick in 2028 to Portland. The main issue is the knee injury that could keep Sharpe off the court for an extended period. Moreover, he would not be an immediate second star but a bet on his development.

What profile does Detroit really need?

The four options present different advantages, but Detroit's need should determine the type of operation. Porter Jr. and Ingram would offer a more established offensive solution, while LaVine would provide immediate outside scoring and Sharpe would represent an alternative with greater uncertainty and potential.

If the goal is to find a player who can lead the second unit, generate points without relying on Cunningham, and maintain the outside threat, the ideal profile must combine individual creation, shooting, and the ability to play with and without the ball. The franchise will also need to consider the cost of each move, especially if it involves losing Jalen Duren.

The Pistons have a competitive foundation around Cunningham, Ausar Thompson, and the rest of their young core. However, to establish themselves as contenders in the East, they need to avoid having all the offensive weight fall on their main star. The addition of a secondary scorer could be the next step in turning a promising team into a more complete playoff roster.

This is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Los 4 anotadores exteriores que podría fichar Detroit Pistons