NBA Trade News: Detroit Pistons Nab Emerging $2.2 Million Oklahoma City Thunder Wing on Two-Way Contract To Perimeter Defense

The Detroit Pistons are continuing to build around young, versatile talent by signing guard/forward Colby Jones to a two-way contract, per ESPN. At just 23, Jones arrives with momentum after a breakout second-half performance last season that showcased his growing value as a reliable two-way player.

From Fringe Prospect to Valuable Rotation Contributor

A 2023 second-round pick (34th overall), the 6-foot-6 Colby Jones entered the league as a do-it-all swingman with positional flexibility. His rookie season with the Sacramento Kings was quiet—averaging just 2.1 points across 30 appearances. But a midseason trade in 2024 to the Washington Wizards became the turning point.Limited to just 1.1 points per game in brief early-season stints with the Kings, Colby Jones found his rhythm in Washington. Over a 15-game stretch with the Wizards, he impressed by putting up 8.7 points, 4.3 rebounds, 2.5 assists, and 1.3 steals per game, shooting 46.6% from the field.

More importantly, he looked the part of a dependable role player—defending on the perimeter, making smart passes, and hitting timely shots.

Why the Detroit Pistons Made the Move

The Detroit Pistons’ ongoing rebuild has emphasized acquiring high-IQ, positionless players who can defend and develop within a team structure. Jones fits that mold perfectly. Detroit’s decision to bring him in on a two-way contract gives them the flexibility to test his potential in both the NBA and G League without taking up a full roster spot.

His combination of length, defensive instincts, and improving offensive feel makes him a valuable depth piece with upside. If he continues trending upward, the Detroit Pistons can convert his deal into a standard contract.

What Colby Jones Brings to the Table

- Defensive Versatility: Colby Jones’ lateral quickness and anticipation have made him a consistent presence on the defensive end, notching 1.3 steals per game with Washington.- Rebounding Ability: Averaging 4.3 boards per game as a wing shows his willingness to mix it up and contribute in all facets.- Playmaking Support: He’s shown flashes of facilitating offense, especially in transition and pick-and-roll scenarios, averaging 2.5 assists during his Wizards run.- Improved Efficiency: His 46.6% field-goal percentage and flashes of perimeter scoring (though his career 3PT mark remains low at .254) suggest progress.- Basketball IQ: Coaches praise his ability to read the game, stay within his role, and execute defensively.For the Detroit Pistons, Colby Jones is a low-risk, potentially high-reward addition. With limited pressure and an environment focused on player growth, Jones could carve out a bigger role than expected. He’s already shown he can adjust to different systems and contribute meaningfully.However, his inconsistency as a shooter and relatively modest offensive ceiling mean he’ll need to continue refining his game to stick long-term.

His two-way status also limits his NBA availability unless the Detroit Pistons convert his contract.Also read: NBA Trade News: Phoenix Suns Reunite with $2.35 Million Los Angeles Lakers Star in Bold Waiver Steal to Bolster Championship BackcourtStill, Colby Jones brings the kind of competitive energy, intelligence, and versatility that rebuilding teams value. If he continues to build on last season’s momentum, Detroit may have landed a sneaky-good contributor for the future.