The Detroit Pistons enter the 2025 offseason with a wave of optimism, primarily centered around potential acquisitions. But before looking outward, what about their homegrown talent? One name worth watching is guard Jaden Ivey , whose potential includes the possibility of either signing an extension or being traded.
This was supposed to be a pivotal season for Ivey—a potential turning point in his young career. With extension talks looming and his name swirling in trade rumors, Ivey needed to prove he belonged as a foundational piece. He responded with the best stretch of his career, averaging 17.6 points, 4.1 rebounds, and 4.0 assists over 30 games. But just as he was finding his rhythm, Ivey suffered a fractured fibula on January 1st, putting his breakout campaign on hold.
As the Pistons aim to turn the corner, they may consider packaging talent for a win-now move . Ivey could be a centerpiece in those discussions. But should Detroit commit to him as a long-term building block—or explore his value on the trade market?
Pistons Face Crucial Jaden Ivey Decision This Offseason
Ivey Will Have to Make the Pistons Believe
Cade Cunningham’s All-NBA Third Team selection triggered the Rose Rule, bumping his extension to 30% of the salary cap—and making the Pistons’ future considerably more expensive. As Detroit enters the 2025–26 season, managing the books while building a contender is a delicate balancing act.
Ivey now enters the final year of his rookie contract, eligible for an extension this offseason. Pistons President Trajan Langdon faces a pivotal choice: lock Ivey in now or let him play out the year and prove he deserves a deal. Given Ivey’s season-ending injury and the uncertainty surrounding his recovery, the front office may opt to wait.
But Ivey’s play before the injury showed flashes of star potential. Whether that short sample size warrants a long-term financial investment will be one of the franchise’s defining questions this summer.
Rising Star or Trade War? The Jaden Ivey Extension Question
As the Pistons explore star-level additions this offseason , Ivey is likely to surface as a key name in trade talks. His value on the market is undeniable—still on a rookie-scale contract, with elite athleticism and scoring upside. Before his injury, Ivey had emerged as one of the league’s fastest guards and a significantly improved offensive weapon. Some around the league believe he could thrive as a lead option on a different team.
But the Pistons’ internal direction will shape that decision. The team took a dramatic leap forward in 2024–25, jumping from 14 to 44 wins, winning their first two playoff games since 2008, and pushing the Knicks to the brink in a six-game series. They did it with depth, continuity, and a sudden national spotlight.
Yet Ivey’s absence was noticeable in the postseason. His downhill pressure and pace could have swung games. That absence only fuels the debate: Is he the missing gear for the Pistons’ future, or the asset needed to acquire someone who is?
The Last Word
As the Detroit Pistons explore star-level additions this offseason, Jaden Ivey is likely to surface as a key name in extension and trade talks. His value on the market is undeniable—still on a rookie-scale contract, with elite athleticism and scoring upside. Before his injury, Ivey had emerged as one of the league’s fastest guards and a significantly improved offensive weapon. Some around the league believe he could thrive as a lead option in a different system.
Yet Ivey’s absence was noticeable in the postseason. His downhill pressure and pace could have swung games. That absence only fuels the debate: Is he the missing gear for the Pistons’ future, or the asset needed to acquire someone who is?
Featured image: © Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images
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