NBA Rumors: Will The Detroit Pistons Trade Stanley Johnson?
NBA Rumors: Teams calling about Stanley Johnson’s availability; Detroit Pistons refusing to entertain trade talks so far
During last year’s NBA playoffs, Stanley Johnson emerged as an unfazed secret weapon against LeBron James. Even though it turned out to be more of a learning experience than anything – especially as the Detroit Pistons were swept by the eventual champion Cleveland Cavaliers – there was reason to be encouraged about the rookie forward’s fearless performances in the playoffs.
A quarter through his sophomore season, though, things haven’t gone as planned for Stanley Johnson.
Johnson is only averaging 3.5 points and 2.2 rebounds per game – both down from last season. He’s also playing about 10 less minutes per game. He’s only logged 20 minutes in four games this season.
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It’s pretty clear that Johnson has fallen in the team’s rotation. And with the way Marcus Morris has performed, and the way Johnson hasn’t, it shouldn’t exactly be a surprise.
Question is, has he fallen in the eyes of the front office – specifically, Stan Van Gundy? That’s what matters most, especially when it comes to the prospect of the team trading Stanley. Which reportedly is something to watch, as teams begin to call on his availability.
[via CSN Chicago]
Sources have told CSNChicago.com the Pistons have resisted overtures for Johnson but with the recent developments, expect executives for rival teams to be more aggressive.
The Pistons would likely be able to get a nice chunk of talent in exchange of Johnson. After all, Johnson just turned 20 and has all the physical skills to be a good-to-great player in the NBA.
However, Detroit needs to figure out whether this stagnant start to the season is a sophomore slump or if it’s something deeper. Until they figure that out, don’t expect the Pistons to move Johnson. It’s simply too early to give up on him.
