What happened: Asked about the hypothetical, Mat Ishbia said Devin Booker would never become a Detroit Piston while Ishbia is alive. The declaration extends Ishbia's repeated public commitment to build around Booker.
Why it matters: Booker's two-year extension limits any near-term path to a deal. Ishbia's position effectively closes off Detroit as a destination under the current ownership.
By the numbers: Phoenix went 8-10 without Booker last season.
What to watch: Booker's role entering 2026-27 will show how fully Ishbia's stance shapes roster planning.