Pistons eye Kyrie Irving in three-team trade

The Detroit Pistons have spent their offseason refining their offensive structure through shooting, but the team still lacks a true secondary playmaker to complement Cade Cunningham. Kyrie Irving’s move to the Dallas Mavericks presents a solution—one that could be finalized through a three-way trade involving Detroit, Dallas, and the Atlanta Hawks. Under this proposal, Irving would join the Pistons in exchange for four players, two future first-round selections, and two draft-swap rights. In return, Dallas would receive Ron Holland II, Kevin Huerter, Jock Landale, Isaiah Joe, and two draft assets. Atlanta would acquire John Collins, Duncan Robinson, and three unprotected first-round picks, along with a second-round selection.

For the Pistons, Irving is more than just a shooter. He offers the ability to draw defenses away from Cunningham and create his own scoring opportunities, traits Ausar Thompson and Daniss Jenkins have not consistently provided. Last season, Detroit’s offense improved by 10.2 points per 100 possessions when Robinson was on the court, demonstrating the impact of proper spacing. However, spacing alone does not guarantee success. Irving’s playmaking and shot-creation skills would address a critical gap in Detroit’s rotation.

The trade also brings in Nickeil Alexander-Walker, who earned Most Improved Player honors last season. By acquiring him at a reduced cost, the Pistons would mirror the New York Knicks’ approach with Mikal Bridges. Alexander-Walker’s defensive versatility, shooting ability, and playmaking would strengthen a roster already featuring Cunningham, Thompson, and Jalen Duren.

Hawks gain rare draft capital and shooters

Dallas would benefit by clearing salary-cap space while adding young talent to support Cooper Flagg. Huerter and Joe provide immediate shooting, while Landale’s expiring contract could be used to acquire additional assets later. The Mavericks would also gain two unprotected first-round picks—valuable resources in a league where draft capital is essential.

The Hawks stand to gain the most from this deal. Three unprotected first-round picks are rare in today’s NBA, and the addition of Collins and Robinson, both proven shooters with expiring contracts, offers Atlanta flexibility. The trade effectively converts Alexander-Walker, a solid but non-superstar player, into draft capital that could yield a future star.

Whether the Hawks agree remains uncertain. Alexander-Walker’s $15 million salary is below market value, but three unprotected first-round picks may not be enough if Atlanta believes a better fit exists. The trade’s structure, however, includes Collins and Robinson’s expiring deals, making it harder to decline.

Pistons solve frontcourt gaps with Irving and NAW

The Pistons’ rotation would gain two elite wings in Irving and Alexander-Walker, filling the void created by Isaiah Stewart’s departure and Ausar Thompson’s inconsistent playmaking. Irving’s role as a primary scorer would allow Cunningham to focus on his own offensive development. Alexander-Walker’s ability to defend multiple positions and shoot from deep would address Detroit’s need for a true two-way wing. Together, Irving’s playmaking, Alexander-Walker’s shooting, and Cunningham’s athleticism would form a frontcourt capable of dominating both ends of the floor, a challenge Detroit has struggled with in recent years.

For Dallas, the trade clears cap space while providing young talent to complement Cooper Flagg. The Mavericks’ core remains centered around Flagg, but Irving’s departure removes a player who, at 34, no longer aligns with their long-term vision. The two future first-round swaps, one in 2029 and another in 2031, give Dallas flexibility to rebuild, particularly if Flagg’s development continues as planned.

The Hawks’ primary advantage is the three unprotected first-round picks, among the most valuable assets in the NBA. Combined with their existing conditional 2027 first-rounder and the ability to swap their 2028 pick, Atlanta would build a deep well of draft capital. Collins and Robinson, both expiring-contract players, provide immediate shooting without long-term commitment. The trade effectively transforms Alexander-Walker, a player who has never been an All-Star, into a foundation for future acquisitions.

The timing of this deal is strategic. It must be completed after December 15 to prevent the Hawks from losing Collins or Robinson to free agency. This window allows all three teams to finalize their rosters while maintaining flexibility for future moves. For the Pistons, adding Irving and Alexander-Walker before the playoffs would give them a full season to integrate the new players into their system.