Before the Los Angeles Lakers landed Luke Kennard ahead of the 2026 NBA trade deadline, the Detroit Pistons were linked to a former reunion with their ex-draft pick.
In late January, SI’s Chris Mannix suggested that Kennard could be viewed as a low-cost pickup for Trajan Langdon’s team.
As the Pistons were looking to make win-now moves that didn’t include a blockbuster label, Kennard made sense, considering he’s on an expiring deal and unlikely to stick with the Atlanta Hawks long-term.
GettyLOS ANGELES, CA – FEBRUARY 7, 2026: Los Angeles Lakers guard Luke Kennard (10) reacts after scoring on a three point shot, his first points in a Lakers uniform against the Golden State Warriors in the first half at Crypto.com Arena on February 7, 2026 in Los Angeles, California.(Gina Ferazzi / Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)
Ultimately, Kennard ended up becoming the Lakers’ notable deadline pickup. In exchange for Gabe Vincent and a future second-round pick, the Lakers took on the veteran sharpshooter.
Soon, Kennard’s future will come into question once again.
Could A “Better Late Than Never” Reunion Form In Detroit?
ATLANTA, GEORGIA – JANUARY 29: Luke Kennard #4 of the Atlanta Hawks drives against Kevin Durant #7 of the Houston Rockets during the second quarter at State Farm Arena on January 29, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)
Kennard still has plenty of time to figure out his future.
The veteran sharpshooter is expected to become an unrestricted free agent in July. If the Pistons want a shot at him, then he might be open to it. However, early signs are pointing to the Lakers prioritizing bringing him back.
A recent ESPN report spilled plenty of details regarding the Lakers’ possible free agency plans this upcoming summer. While all eyes are on LeBron James, Kennard’s name was dropped into the bucket.
“The Lakers aren’t expected to take that $50 million and give it to another star instead of James. They have interest in re-signing Reaves, Jaxson Hayes and Luke Kennard, team sources told ESPN, not to mention Hachimura, if the price is right.” via ESPN
Before making his way to LA, Kennard played in 46 games for the Atlanta Hawks. He saw the court for 20.5 minutes per game.
During that time, the veteran sharpshooter shot 55.9% from the field and hit on 48.1% of his threes. Kennard averaged 7.9 points, 2.2 rebounds, and 2.1 assists per game.
Since getting moved to the Lakers, Kennard has maintained his high-percentage shooting by knocking down 48.1% of his threes. He is producing 8.7 points per game and 2.3 rebounds per game as a member of the Lakers.
Prior to the Atlanta-LA stretch, Kennard started his career with the Pistons in 2017. He was a first-round (12th overall) pick out of Duke.
Kennard played for the Pistons, the LA Clippers, and the Grizzlies.
Luke Kennard just might stick around in LA beyond the 2026 NBA Playoffs. Anything can change in the coming months, but if the Pistons want a shot at a reunion this time around, the competition might be stiff.
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