Pistons predicted to make blockbuster trade for $150 million two-time Finals MVP to create Big Three with Cade Cunningham, Jalen Duren originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.The Detroit Pistons just suffered a big loss in the first round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs, losing the opener against the Orlando Magic. If the Pistons aren’t able to figure things out and become early exits, they could take some drastic measures this offseason.Bleacher Report’s Dan Favale believes so as well, and predicts the Pistons could trade for Los Angeles Clippers superstar Kawhi Leonard.

Leonard has championship experience as a two-time Finals MVP, and would bring the scoring and defense Detroit needs in order to lift the Larry O’Brien trophy.MORE: Latest 2026 Mock Draft predicts Mavericks land back-to-back No. 1 picks, pair Cooper Flagg with 6'9" 25.5 PPG March Madness hero“Kawhi could prove to be an ideal target for the Detroit Pistons if their postseason ends in disappointment. He soups up both the primary and secondary offense, and his salary comes off the books (and should get cheaper moving forward) just as they're shelling out big money for all three of Cade Cunningham, Jalen Duren (restricted) and Ausar Thompson,” Favale wrote.

This past season, Leonard averaged 27.9 points, 6.4 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 1.9 steals in 32 minutes per game. Adding him to a starting five with Cade Cunningham and Jalen Duren, and they could have the best team in the Eastern Conference, hands down.MORE: Cavaliers receive huge free agency update regarding superstar James Harden ahead of 2026 NBA PlayoffsThe only two problems come with acquiring him. The Pistons would have to find a way to handle his $50 million per year contract, which also could be a one-year rental.

On top of that, they would have to give up years of assets to land such a star.As long as they are comfortable with that though, getting Leonard seems like a no-brainer. Especially if their team doesn't even make the conference finals.MORE NBA CONTENTClippers predicted to cut ties with $11 million three-time All-Star after his failure to help Kawhi Leonard, Los Angeles this seasonCavaliers superstar James Harden predicted to opt-out of current deal, receive $65 million contract updateLakers predicted to upgrade from Deandre Ayton, sign $200 million All-Star center if current team doesn't extend him after breakout season