Pistons grade for Jaden Ivey trade to Bulls better than you think

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The Detroit Pistons‘ backcourt tandem of the future is no more.

The Pistons pulled off a Jaden Ivey trade in a three-team deal Tuesday, Feb. 3, sending him to their Central Division rival Chicago Bulls two days before the 2026 NBA trade deadline. In the trade, the Pistons acquired Kevin Huerter, an above-average 3-point shooter for his career and above-average playmaking wing.

Here’s our quick reaction and analysis of the deal for the Pistons:

Jaden Ivey trade grade: Pistons get B-

Trade details:

• Pistons get: Kevin Huerter, Dario Saric, 2026 first-round pick swap with Minnesota (protected 1-19).
• Bulls get: Jaden Ivey, Mike Conley Jr.
• Timberwolves get: Trade exception worth $10.8 million.

The buzz: The bulk of the Pistons’ backup minutes at guard have gone to two-way guard Daniss Jenkins, who is on track to be promoted to a standard deal at the trade deadline. Ivey’s path to the starting lineup is blocked by Cunningham and sharpshooter Duncan Robinson. Still, Ivey has made 37.2% of his 3s this season (42-for-113).

THE DEAL: Why Pistons decided to trade former lottery pick Jaden Ivey to Bulls

In return, the Pistons gain a veteran wing in Huerter, 27, who they hope will find his shooting touch and address their need for additional spacing. Outside shooting has been a weakness for the Pistons all season, as they’re one of the league’s least potent 3-point shooters. Huerter is averaging 10.9 points and 2.6 assists per game this season, but has only made 31.4% of his 3s this season. A 6-foot-6 off-guard, Huerter is a capable playmaker and consistently has been between the 70th and 90th percentiles in assist percentage among wings, according to Cleaning The Glass.

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Contact Omari Sankofa II at osankofa@freepress.com. Follow him on Bluesky and/or X @omarisankofa.