The Detroit Pistons return home to face the Atlanta Hawks after a disappointing one-point loss to the Charlotte Hornets. Cade Cunningham continues to shine, becoming the first Piston since Grant Hill to record back-to-back triple-doubles. Yet, the excitement around his achievement was tempered by Jalen Duren’s injury—a pivotal setback for Detroit. The third-year center sprained his ankle in the first quarter and didn’t return, leaving a gap in the Pistons’ frontcourt.
In just nine games, Duren has been a major contributor, averaging 8.0 points, 9.7 rebounds, 2.4 assists, and 1.2 blocks on an efficient 83% shooting. Despite some struggles with consistency and foul trouble, Duren’s impact on the Pistons’ interior presence is undeniable. His injury could prompt a lineup shift, giving Isaiah Stewart a larger role.
Stewart has been the ultimate professional this season, embracing a bench role and thriving in it. Known for his defensive grit and versatility, Stewart has brought stability and intensity each time he’s on the floor, and the Pistons’ defense noticeably improves with him anchoring the middle. His commitment to the role gives Detroit a more consistent defensive foundation, especially in Duren’s absence.
With Stewart likely to play extended minutes, how will the Pistons’ identity shift on both ends of the floor? And with Stewart’s emergence, could this be an opportunity for the Pistons to experiment with new schemes? Let’s dive into what Stewart’s expanded role might mean for Detroit’s season.
Pistons Rely On Isaiah Stewart Amid Jalen Duren’s Injury
Pistons’ Stewart Offensive Game Differs From Duren
Stewart’s style of play has taken a notable turn from last season. Previously, he was one of Detroit’s top three-point shooters, attempting 3.8 threes per game at a 38% clip—one of the highest percentages on the team. This season, however, Stewart has largely abandoned the three-point shot, with just four attempts so far. The shift may be attributed to the Pistons’ offseason additions of shooters, reducing the need for him to stretch the floor.
Stewart’s ability to shoot threes still provides an advantage for the Pistons when he’s in the starting lineup. His potential as a shooter keeps defenders from sagging off him, unlike when Duren is on the floor. With more spacing, players like Cunningham, Jaden Ivey, and Tobias Harris can find more driving lanes, enhancing their ability to create inside opportunities.
Equal Playmaking Abilities
Duren has become a reliable playmaker this season, averaging 2.4 assists per game. Stewart, though not known for his passing, showed flashes of playmaking potential with six assists on Wednesday night, tying his career-best total. Averaging 1.3 assists during his career, Stewart is now posting a career-high 2.3 assists per game. His ability to execute dribble hand-offs and set solid screens opens up high-quality shots for his teammates, giving Detroit a dynamic offensive option when he’s in playmaking mode.
Defensive Aggression That Makes The Pistons Better
Stewart’s calling card is his defense, and any offensive contributions are a welcome bonus. His gritty style has made him the Pistons’ enforcer, earning respect from teammates and opponents around the league. Off the bench, Stewart leads the team with 1.3 blocks per game, anchoring Detroit’s paint defense and posing a challenge for opponents trying to score inside. His mobility also allows him to guard on the perimeter, making it difficult for opposing centers to drive past him.
However, Stewart’s physical play has its downsides. Despite averaging just 20.2 minutes per game, he leads the team in fouls with 3.4 per game. Stewart’s impact is valued by head coach J.B. Bickerstaff, but for the Pistons to thrive, he’ll need to find a balance. Asking Stewart to slightly dial back his intensity could be essential for the Pistons’ success.
The Last Word
Isaiah Stewart’s evolving role is essential for the Detroit Pistons. His shift from a three-point shooter to a more traditional interior presence allows the Pistons to adapt their offense around their new shooters, creating better spacing for Cade Cunningham and Jaden Ivey to attack the paint. Stewart’s playmaking growth is an added layer to the offense, and his defensive tenacity brings the grit Detroit prides itself on.
Yet, for Stewart to maximize his impact, finding a balance in his physicality is key. His high foul rate limits his availability, and managing this could make him an even more valuable asset as Detroit looks to compete night in and night out. As Stewart embraces his new role, the Pistons gain both a versatile big man and a defensive anchor who embodies the team’s hardworking identity. If he continues on this path, Stewart could become a crucial piece in the Pistons’ resurgence.
