Isaiah Stewart could find himself involved in several Detroit Pistons trade scenarios this offseason. Following their best season since 2005-06, the focus in Detroit is on adding pieces that can help the team take another step forward. But improving the roster could also mean making difficult decisions. Should Stewart be one of them?
From the darkest days of Pistons basketball to the franchise’s return to relevance, Stewart has been there every step of the way. Widely regarded as the heart and soul of the team, he has embodied a physical, no-nonsense approach that has become ingrained in Detroit’s identity.
While dealing Stewart could help the Pistons land a missing piece, moving one of their emotional leaders could come at a cost. Would the potential return outweigh what Detroit stands to lose? Let’s break down the cons of trading a fan favorite who represents Detroit in Stewart.
Trading Isaiah Stewart Could Leave Pistons Searching For Toughness
Last Line Of Defense
When you talk about Stewart and what he brings to the table, his impact is undeniable. One of his biggest strengths is his elite defense. Stewart earned NBA Defensive Player of the Month honors in December and ranked eighth in the league with 1.6 blocks per game despite averaging just 22.7 minutes. Per 36 minutes, that number jumps to 2.5 blocks.
Opponents shot one of the lowest percentages at the rim against Stewart. While there are times when he loses a matchup, more often than not, he comes out on top. Stewart’s fearless, physical style of play has become synonymous with Pistons basketball. For a team that has built its identity on toughness and defense, replacing Stewart’s rim protection, energy, and edge would be much easier said than done.
The Value Of Buy-In
Every player in the NBA believes they are capable of starting. Some reluctantly accept reduced roles, while others seek opportunities elsewhere. Stewart has every reason to view himself as a starting-caliber center. Despite being labeled an undersized big man, he has shown he can make an impact on both ends of the floor. Yet, Stewart has embraced whatever role the Pistons have asked him to play.
When called upon to start, Stewart has produced. In 13 starts this season, the Pistons went 11-2 with him anchoring the middle. He averaged 12.5 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 2.0 blocks in 26.9 minutes per game. Stewart also delivered some of the best performances of his career, including a career-high 31 points against the Chicago Bulls on January 7th and a 26-point, 14-rebound effort against the Memphis Grizzlies on November 3.
Not every player would willingly sacrifice a starting role for the betterment of the team. Stewart has done exactly that, accepting his assignment without complaint and providing the Pistons with valuable flexibility. That type of selflessness is difficult to quantify, but it is one of the reasons Detroit has been able to establish a winning culture.
The Cost Of Losing Detroit’s Protector
The Pistons’ biggest reason not to trade Stewart is simple: every team needs an enforcer. Every successful team needs that one player willing to do whatever is necessary for the betterment of the group. Time and time again, Stewart has proven to be that player for the Pistons.
It’s the good with the bad. There are times when you wish Stewart would tone it down a bit, but that’s simply not who he is. His fiery demeanor and willingness to stand up for his teammates are part of what make him invaluable. Sure, there are moments when his emotions can swing momentum or put Detroit behind the eight-ball, but more often than not, opposing teams think twice knowing Stewart is waiting on the other side.
His value extends far beyond the box score. Stewart provides the type of toughness, accountability, and edge that every contender needs but few possess. Teammates know he has their backs, and opponents know there will be consequences for taking liberties. Love him or hate him, Stewart has become Detroit’s protector, and replacing that mentality would be far more difficult than replacing his statistics.
The Last Word
Ultimately, trading Stewart could bring the Detroit Pistons a valuable piece, but it would also mean parting with one of the team’s emotional leaders and defensive anchors. Stewart’s value extends beyond the box score, as his toughness, versatility, willingness to accept any role, and commitment to protecting his teammates have become integral to Detroit’s identity. While no player is untouchable, replacing the mentality and culture Stewart embodies would be far more difficult to replace than replacing his production, making it a tough decision to move on from him.
Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images via Reuters Connect
