Detroit Pistons: Ranking the 5 best defenders on the roster

Detroit Pistons best defenders #2- Jerami Grant

Jerami Grant was at the heart of the Pistons’ defensive improvement last season, and his versatility is what makes this defense go.

He was the team’s 2nd-best shot blocker, getting over a swat per game from the forward position, and Grant also defended all over the court.

His defensive skill could allow the Pistons to go small and put him at center for short stretches, which should give Dwane Casey some lineup advantages against certain teams.

Jerami Grant is partially responsible for the change in culture in Detroit and has totally bought into what they are trying to build.

Detroit Pistons best defenders #1- Isaiah Stewart

Stewart is just entering his second season and was a backup most of the year as a rookie, so it might seem odd to put him here.

But Beef Stew represents the changes in the center position, as he has the strength to mix it up with bigs in the paint but also has the quickness to step out and defend guards when he has to switch on the perimeter, similar to a guy like Bam Adebayo.

Stewart led the team and all rookies in blocked shots last season and when you dig deeper into the stats, they show a guy who was one of the most effective defenders in the league.

Isaiah Stewart is already a fan favorite because of his motor and defense and I expect him to get even better in an expanded role next season.