The 2018 NBA trade deadline is off to a roaring start. The Chicago Bulls have sent Jameer Nelson to the Detroit Pistons in exchange for Willie Reed, per Shams Charania of The Vertical.
Detroit acquired Reed during the Blake Griffin trade, but the combination of losing Avery Bradley to the Clippers and Reggie Jackson’s current injury has thinned the team’s backcourt.
Similarly, the Bulls added Nelson when shipping Nikola Mirotic to the New Orleans Pelicans. The veteran point guard did not appear in any games with Chicago but averaged 5.1 points and 3.6 assists over 20.9 minutes per night in New Orleans.
No, it’s not a glamorous trade, but Nelson will improve the Pistons’ depth. Plus, Reed would only hold a minimal role behind the All-Star duo of Griffin and Andre Drummond.
Detroit has realistic playoff hopes, and adding Nelson gives the roster a valuable, experienced reserve.