Former Pistons Trade Acquisition Garnering Interest From Phoenix Suns

Just a month ago, the Detroit Pistons welcomed two seasoned veterans to their team after making a trade with the Washington Wizards.

In exchange for Marvin Bagley III, Isaiah Livers, and draft compensation, the Pistons landed Danilo Gallinari and Mike Muscala.

The latter player is currently expected to stick around and maintain a role on the team. Gallinari, however, is exploring another fresh start.

The Italian forward landed on the NBA’s waiver wire last Thursday as the NBA trade deadline approached. For the second time in two years, Gallinari has the freedom to dictate his next move via free agency.

According to Duane Rankin of The Arizona Republic, Gallinari has generated interest from the Phoenix Suns. They become the first contending team to be linked to the short-term Pistons forward.

At this stage in his career, Gallinari is searching for a role on a contending squad. At 35 years old, Gallinari’s timeline didn’t match Detroit’s this season, which is the leading factor that led to confusion about the Pistons’ decision to trade for him in the first place.

Either way, Gallinari’s short time in Detroit offered an opportunity for him to showcase his value before hitting the open market. In six matchups, Gallinari averaged nine points on 55 percent shooting from the field. 

He attempted two shots from beyond the arc during that stretch, knocking down 58 percent of his threes. Prior to joining the Pistons, Gallinari averaged seven points on 31 percent shooting from deep in 26 games with the Wizards.

Phoenix might be the first team to eye up Gallinari, but they are unlikely to be the only ones. Despite the recent injury concerns for the veteran forward, Gallinari brings enough playoff experience to a championship-hopeful team that’s in search of a reserve forward who holds value in a limited role. 

In the coming days, the former Pistons forward could become one of the most intriguing names on the developing buyout market.