Brandon Jennings will not be back on the court for the remainder of the season. The point guard suffered a torn Achilles that ended his productive season early while leaving the Detroit Pistons without their best player while in playoff contention. That has the team seeking out trade deals at the deadline and while Jennings might not be able to play again this year, that is not stopping the team from seeking out trade interest as they need more offensive production in order to get into the postseason.
Jennings is currently inked to a contract that runs through the 2015 season while paying him $8 million in the coming year. It is not a huge commitment for teams to take on and Jennings is certainly showing he can be worth the investment. The Detroit Pistons are hoping other teams see that as well since they are looking for expiring contracts to take on and are not interested in dealing either Greg Monroe or Andre Drummond to achieve that. Jennings is the prime target.
According to Ohm Young Misuk of ESPN.com, the Pistons have contacted the Brooklyn Nets regarding a trade for Joe Johnson, offering up Jennings in return. Young Misuk reports that Detroit wants expiring contracts in order to add big names in the offseason and they are willing to trade Jennings in order to do so while also liking the fit of Johnson into the system. There is no confirmation that this deal went any further than simple discussions and a phone call, but it is a clear indication that Detroit is willing to shop Jennings around in the next 24 hours.
With Goran Dragic headlining the point guard position at the trade deadline and into free agency, any team that might miss out on him could aim to trade for Jennings instead. The New York Knicks, Houston Rockets and Los Angeles Lakers are all looking to trade for a long-term point guard, but only one can get Dragic. Jennings would be a solid option despite his inability to play the rest of the season.
The Knicks and Lakers have expiring contracts they can easily offer up in return. Players like Andrea Bargnani and Jeremy Lin could be available for a deal. With Rajon Rondo potentially off the market for good, teams in need of long-term options will try and trade before waiting for free agency. Jennings will be of interest if he is truly available.
