Eastern Conference Team Named As Favorite To Land Herb Jones If He's Traded

The New Orleans Pelicans are struggling mightily in 2025–26, and without their first-round pick for the 2026 NBA Draft, this is a team that's heading for a very, very rough period. Given these struggles, many expect them to make some moves ahead of the trade deadline, and while they've seemingly made some players untouchable, they should be looking to make plenty of moves.

One team that isn't struggling is the Detroit Pistons, a team that ranks No. 1 in the entire Eastern Conference after they took a major leap forward a year ago. Now, it appears they could be trading partners, with Brett Siegel naming the Pistons as the favorite to land Pelicans star Herb Jones if the team finally decides to move on from him.

"If Herb Jones is to be moved, I would go out on a limb and say the Pistons are the No. 1 spot to get him."

This season, Jones is averaging 10 points, 4 rebounds, and 2 assists per game, and combined with his elite defense, he has become a key piece of the Pelicans' lineup and would be a fantastic addition to this Pistons team as they chase an NBA championship.

On paper, it's time for the Pelicans to move on from the likes of Jones, given their current position, and if a team like the Pistons comes calling, don't be shocked to see the team move on from him ahead of the 2026 trade deadline.