Detroit Pistons make key decision on trade acquisition

The Detroit Pistons were one of the busiest teams at the 2024 trade deadline. Making multiple deals, the Pistons took part in one of the most important trades with the New York Knicks.

The Knicks were applauded for getting Bojan Bogdanovic and Alec Burks out of Detroit. Meanwhile, the Pistons signed veterans Quentin Grimes and Evan Fournier in hopes of helping their younger players develop at the end of a disappointing season.

Fournier has done his part in Detroit, serving as a mentor and a valuable veteran. It’s now becoming clear that the Pistons won’t keep Fournier – well, at least not for nearly $20 million.

By James Edwards III of AthleticsFournier’s $19 million option will not be exercised.

The move isn’t all that shocking considering the Pistons failed to play a significant role for Fournier during his short time with the team.

The 31-year-old has appeared in 29 games. Fournier, coming off the bench in each matchup, has averaged nearly 19 minutes on the court. In that time, Fournier has shot 37 percent from the field and made just 27 percent of his threes on four attempts per game.

The veteran averaged seven points per game, which was a slight increase from his last full season with the Knicks.

Before he became discouraged with New York, Fournier was a regular starter for the Knicks in the 2021-2022 season. This year he averaged 14 points per game with a 39% long-range shooting percentage.

It’s unclear what’s next for Fournier. When the offseason began, there were rumors of a potential run overseas for the veteran. However, Fournier’s rep noted that he remains “eager” to continue his NBA run.

Will that be the case with the Pistons? Fournier shouldn’t rule out a return to Detroit. However, given where the veteran is in his career, he could be looking to earn a role with a contender. With free agency just around the corner, Fournier could soon be meeting with teams to figure out his next move.

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