How Dennis Schröder Fills Pistons’ Biggest Roster Need Perfectly

The Detroit Pistons were busy at the 2024-25 NBA trade deadline, making a series of moves to address their need for a reliable secondary ball-handler. After initially acquiring K.J. Martin, Josh Richardson, and Lindy Waters III, the Pistons quickly flipped Martin and Richardson to the Utah Jazz in exchange for Dennis Schröder.

It was a whirlwind 24 hours for Schröder, who found himself on his third team in a single day. His journey began with a trade to the Miami Heat, followed by a move to the Jazz, and finally, a landing spot with the Pistons. This marked Schröder’s fourth trade this season and fifth in the past year.

Despite the constant movement, Schröder’s skill set makes him an exciting addition for the Pistons. His scoring ability and playmaking will be vital for the second unit whenever Cade Cunningham is off the floor. But is this move enough to solidify the Pistons as a playoff contender? Let’s dive in.

How Dennis Schröder Fills Pistons’ Biggest Roster Need Perfectly

Schröder Fits Perfectly With The Pistons Timeline

Since Jaden Ivey’s injury, the Pistons have stayed afloat with an 11-8 record. Still, the offense hasn’t looked the same. With Ivey healthy, head coach J.B. Bickerstaff always had a reliable secondary ball-handler and playmaker to help stabilize the team. In his absence, that role shifted to Marcus Sasser, who has done a solid job holding things down.

However, the second unit missed a steady veteran presence. Leads built with Cunningham on the floor would often evaporate during his rest. The lack of a true floor general to manage the offense and create opportunities for others became evident. That’s exactly what Schröder provides—a steady hand who can control the pace and generate offense when the team needs it most.

In his 12 NBA seasons, Schröder has built a reputation as a reliable scorer and playmaker, averaging 14.0 points, 2.9 rebounds, and 4.9 assists on 43/34/86 shooting splits. This season, during stints with the Brooklyn Nets and Golden State Warriors, he’s averaging 14.4 points and 5.6 assists. Schröder’s ability to push the tempo, break down defenses, and find open shooters makes him a perfect fit for Detroit’s second unit. The Pistons needed a veteran guard to bring stability and leadership off the bench. Schröder is just that.

Was This Move Enough?

While some may have hoped for a more high-profile acquisition, the addition of Schröder is a practical and well-calculated move for the Pistons. Not only does he fill a glaring need as a secondary ball-handler, but his one-year deal makes it a low-risk proposition. If Schröder thrives, he could earn himself a significant extension. If not, the Pistons have the flexibility to move on in the summer.

Overall, this move should help the Pistons remain in contention for a play-in spot. The second unit had some tough, gritty players who weren’t afraid to do the dirty work, but outside of Malik Beasley, reliable scoring was hard to come by. In today’s NBA, having multiple shot creators is essential for sustained success.

That’s exactly what makes this move the perfect fit for the Pistons. Schröder’s ability to score, facilitate, and lead the second unit adds a dynamic element the team was sorely missing. He’s a high-risk, high-reward player who will leave everything on the floor in pursuit of team success.

The Last Word

The Pistons didn’t make a splashy move at the trade deadline, but they made the right one. Dennis Schröder is the type of veteran who can provide stability, leadership, and much-needed scoring off the bench. His presence will ease the burden on Cade Cunningham and help maintain offensive flow when the starters are off the floor.

Whether Schröder is a short-term fix or a long-term piece, he improves the Pistons’ chances of staying competitive. He gives Detroit a better shot at securing a postseason spot. His experience and energy will be crucial for this young roster. Schröder can step up in key moments. He could be exactly what the Pistons need to take the next step.