Pistons president of basketball operations Joe Dumars spoke to the Detroit media Tuesday about a bunch of topics including making the team tough again, something we noted Tuesday. Dumars said they're in need of a big man heading into the draft. Reading between the lines and grabbing some analysis for ESPN's Chad Ford, it looks like the Pistons would be interested in trading up to nab the No. 3 or No. 4 pick in the draft to have a shot at Derrick Favors or DeMarcus Cousins. But they could also move up to the No. 2 spot and swap with Philly. The Sixers want to get rid of Elton Brand's contract, so he could be the Pistons' big man in addition to getting the No. 2 pick. Writes Terry Foster of The Detroit News: "The 76ers are willing to unload the No. 2 pick in the draft along with 6-foot-9 power forward bust Elton Brand. ... Brand could be what the doctor ordered for the Pistons. But Brand will make $15.6 million next season, $17.1 the following year and $18.2 million in 2013. That's a lot of cash, but it would be a bold and daring move. And here's how: Dumars should offer the 76ers the No. 7 pick in the draft, Richard Hamilton and Jason Maxiell for the No. 2 pick and Brand." We're going to go ahead and say this "bold and daring" move likely isn't the best route for the Pistons. Brand, after coming off surgery, struggled at times this year and makes a ton of money. Favors and Cousins will make a fraction of what Brand makes with a rookie-scale contract, and could prove to be just as, if not more, effective than Brand in their rookie seasons. There's just a lot more upside in grabbing a youngster than a declining, expensive Brand. Source: Detroit News
