As the 2025 NBA free agency period begins to slow down, the Detroit Pistons may not be finished reshaping their roster. President of Basketball Operations Trajan Langdon has already added shooting and versatility with the acquisitions of Caris LeVert and Duncan Robinson . But with scoring still a clear area of need, there’s another name on the market who could elevate the Pistons’ offense—Brooklyn Nets guard Cam Thomas .
Thomas is one of the NBA’s most promising young scorers. He averaged 22.5 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 2.9 assists in 66 games during the 2023–24 season. In a 25-game stretch last season, his numbers rose to 24.0 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 3.8 assists. Thomas can score at all three levels and consistently create his shot. That makes him an intriguing option for a Pistons team lacking reliable offense. If the Pistons pursue him, two big questions follow: What’s the cost, and how would he fit with this young core?
Would Cam Thomas Thrive with the Detroit Pistons’ Core?
What’s the Cost?
If the Pistons want Thomas, they may need to trade Jaden Ivey and Isaiah Stewart . One proposed deal sends both players to Brooklyn in exchange for Thomas. It’s a steep price for a scorer some critics call a “ball hog.” This move would likely depend on a three-year, $65 million contract agreement .
At first glance, the deal may feel unbalanced. Ivey, while still developing, has shown flashes of star potential, and Stewart remains the emotional leader of the team with his trademark toughness and grit. However, the financial dynamics make this scenario more complex.
The Pistons are currently hard-capped at the first apron. Trading Ivey and Stewart could free up roughly $5 million in salary, giving them some much-needed breathing room. With Ivey eligible for a contract extension—and speculation that his market value may exceed his on-court impact—the front office could be weighing whether he fits into their long-term plans.
How Does Cam Thomas Fit with the Pistons?
Thomas would immediately boost the Pistons’ scoring. His ability to create shots in isolation and hit tough buckets could take pressure off Cade Cunningham and help unclog the Pistons’ half-court offense. As a secondary scorer, he’d offer much-needed firepower and spacing, especially if his three-point shooting continues to improve.
However, Thomas’s ball-dominant style raises questions. He’s not a natural playmaker, and his shot-heavy approach could disrupt the team’s offensive flow. Defensively, he remains a liability, which could be an issue alongside a young core emerging as a high-level defensive team.
If the coaching staff defines his role clearly and he buys into a system, Thomas could be a game-changer. If not, his fit could become more of a burden than a benefit.
The Last Word
Cam Thomas offers undeniable scoring talent, and his addition could address one of the Detroit Pistons’ most significant needs: offensive firepower. But acquiring him would come at a real cost, both in terms of young talent and team identity. Trading away Jaden Ivey and Isaiah Stewart is a gamble that only pays off if Thomas matures into a more well-rounded player and fits into the Pistons’ long-term vision.
For a team finding its identity, Thomas must show he can grow with the core, not just score. If the front office believes in that potential, this move could accelerate the Pistons’ chances. If not, the risk may outweigh the reward.
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