Jan 24, 2014; Auburn Hills, MI, USA; Detroit Pistons power forward Greg Monroe (10) drives to the basket during the third quarter against the New Orleans Pelicans at The Palace of Auburn Hills. New Orleans won 103-101. Mandatory Credit: Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports
Detroit Pistons forward Greg Monroe’s name has been popping up all over the trade rumor mill over the past few weeks. Specifically, in connection with the Washington Wizards.
Even though, Monroe is projected to become a restricted free agent this summer and is probably in line for a huge payday, the Pistons are not interested in moving Monroe. At least, not yet:
"[ESPN]Sources briefed on the situation told ESPN.com this week that the Pistons have been telling teams with Monroe interest that the restricted free agent-to-be — no matter what you’ve heard — is not available…Sources say teams calling to inquire about Monroe’s availability are being advised that he’s not on the market."
The one concern for the Pistons is that they just invested $50 million in Josh Smith and are going to almost definitely pay big bucks to Andre Drummond — that likely leaves Monroe as the odd man out in this situation.
Still, it appears the Pistons are going to play the “wait and see” game with Monroe. Maybe they can somehow make money magically appear and re-sign him in the offseason. If not, this has sign and trade written all over it.