Detroit Pistons: Isaiah Stewart is the best rookie defender
Coming into last year’s draft, Wiseman was thought to be one of the top shot blockers in his rookie class.
He had a fairly good season in that regard, averaging just under a block per game in 21.4 minutes.
Stewart, on the other hand, led all rookies in total blocked shots and blocks per game with 1.3 and looks like a guy who might lead the league in blocks someday.
But it’s not just blocked shots that set Stewart apart defensively.
Stewart is already one of the best in the NBA at switching on the perimeter, a skill that is paramount for modern centers who are often asked to defend much smaller and quicker players.
Stewart can guard everyone from the point guard to the center and his switch-ability on the perimeter gives the Detroit Pistons a lot of lineup flexibility, as he can play the four or the five effectively.
Stewart’s versatility and ability to affect shots all over the floor gives him the edge over Wiseman, who is more of a traditional shot blocker.