After spending the previous week connected to former Miami Heat guard Tyler Herro, the Detroit Pistons are now broadening their scope of potential targets.
In the second round of the 2026 NBA Draft, Detroit executed a significant transaction by sending veteran center Isaiah Stewart to another team in exchange for multiple draft picks.
Although those draft assets provide value for the long term, offloading the remaining $60 million on Stewart’s contract was a primary motivator behind the move. With cap space now cleared, the Pistons are in pursuit of high-profile talent, and an NBA insider pointed to two specific names on Wednesday, June 24.
Detroit Pistons Tied To Bold Star-Level Targets
“What if they go big-game hunting? What if they inquire about Kawhi Leonard’s availability, given that it’s uncertain whether he’ll extend his contract in L.A. or get moved? What if they explore some of the bigger names who might become available?” Windhorst proposed on ESPN.
“Honestly, they’ve freed up enough room they could even reach out to LeBron James if they wanted.”
The Los Angeles Lakers forward hasn’t been connected to Detroit during this offseason, though Leonard had been mentioned as a possible trade candidate in recent weeks.
Even with Windhorst bringing up the Pistons in relation to these players, there remains no substantial indication that Detroit is genuinely chasing Leonard or LeBron.
Should Detroit Make A Run At LeBron James?
At this stage of his career, James is unlikely to commit to any long-term contracts. The franchise that acquires LeBron next would probably get him as a one-season rental. At this point, the Lakers, the Cleveland Cavaliers, or retirement appear to be the most plausible destinations for him.
The 41-year-old veteran continues to produce at a high level, posting averages of 20.9 points, 7.2 assists, and 6.1 rebounds over 60 games in the 2025–2026 season, earning another All-Star selection.
Detroit could certainly make the attempt, but securing LeBron James remains a long shot.
The Kawhi Leonard Dilemma For Detroit
Would it be worthwhile? Unlike James, Leonard would most likely seek a multi-year commitment.
When healthy, Leonard remains an elite performer. Across 65 appearances in the 2025–2026 campaign, the forward put up 27.9 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game.
Leonard is heading into the final season of a three-year, $149.5 million contract with the Los Angeles Clippers, and he would probably expect an extension from whichever team trades for him.
There are considerable concerns surrounding Leonard, including ongoing injury issues and an active NBA investigation. Additionally, the Clippers are expected to drive a hard bargain regarding his availability, having made their position clear that they are not currently inclined to move him.
The on-court production remains intact for the veteran forward, but at this moment, Leonard likely falls into the category of a very improbable addition.
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