There is no secret that teams are interested in trading for one of the Detroit Pistons’ best offensive players. With the NBA trade deadline approaching on Thursday, Feb 7th, there has been a lot of trade talk around the Small Forward.
Bogdanović was acquired by the Pistons in the preseason and soon after signed a two-year, $39 million extension. Since the signing, Bogi has been one of the best offensive players on the Pistons. Averaging career numbers in points (21.2) and shooting just under 50% from the field (48.7).
Bogi’s play has sparked a lot of interest in teams around the league, and there are some potential offers out there that could be interesting for Detroit.
The Pistons have spent the last few years trying to rebuild their team around a young core. Bogi is not exactly a part of that young core, however, the offensive load he has been carrying and his veteran knowledge leaves reason to have him stick around.
The Pistons have made it clear that they have no problem keeping Bogdanović for another year as they have no intentions of dropping their price range. The Pistons are looking for a young player and an unprotected first-round pick.
It is unclear whether or not Bogi will be a part of the Pistons squad next year, but here is a list of potential teams that could use Bogi and the most likely trade offer.
The Los Angeles Lakers
There has been talk all around the league that the Lakers may be one of the most interested teams for Bogi as they are in need of a player with his skills. It is no surprise that the Lakers are in need of a consistent shooter on their roster.
Bogi is just that, as he has been providing some of the most consistent basketball of his career. Bogi this year has shot 48.7% from the field and 42.2% behind the arc. His career numbers would insist that he is a perfect fit for the Lakers needs.
Of course, there has also been a lot of talk of whether or not the Lakers will be willing to pay the asking price of the Pistons. The Lakers amongst other teams will be hoping the Pistons will drop their price, but the Pistons have held their ground.
The Phoenix Suns
Another team that is reportedly interested in the 33-year-old small forward is the Phoenix Suns.
The Suns, who have made some deep playoff runs in the last few years, have looked a little different. They have lost a few players in free agency and are now missing key players like Jae Crowder.
The Suns are currently seventh in the West and are looking to get back where they have been these past few years. They also have what the Pistons are looking for in a first-rounder and young players like Cam Johnson.
The Atlanta Hawks
The Hawks are another team that may be interested in trading four Bogi after falling a little short of where they want to be in their conference.
Atlanta, who has continued to make it into the playoffs, yet when they made it to the Conference Finals they struggled to capitalize, could be looking for an offensive boost.
They have had some contract issues of their own with offensive scorer John Collins, and he could potentially be a part of a deal with the Pistons. However, there is a lot of money left on Collins’ deal, and the Pistons may be reluctant to that idea.
What’s Next for Bogi and the Pistons?
As mentioned before, the Pistons are unwilling to drop their price to get rid of Bogi and are confident in keeping him and running it back next year.
That being said, the only way Bogi will be going anywhere is if there is a team out there with a competitive offer or if a perfect opportunity for the Pistons presents itself.
Bogi has been performing at a high level for the Pistons, and I am sure the organization and its fans will have no problem keeping him around.
