Detroit Pistons: Keys to Isaiah Stewart avoiding the sophomore slump
Detroit Pistons: Isaiah Stewart need to bring the defensive intensity/rebounding
Stewart is a high motor talent who plays with a edge. Well known for his scrappiness and hustle, he’s the prototypical blue collar Detroit Pistons big. He will need to channel his intensity more this year to stay on the floor. Staying away from cheap fouls will be huge, it’s something that plagued him in his rookie year. It’s all part of the maturation process for a young player, he’ll learn being on the floor is more meaningful than a potential early foul.
The 6’9 center has been working hands on with Pistons hall of fame center Ben Wallace. This will have a significant impact on his play this season. Stewart is a student of the game, Big Ben has all the knowledge the undersized big could ask for. He’ll learn many things, none more important than protecting the paint.
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Last year the Detroit Pistons ranked 28th defensively in points in the paint. Hopefully with Stewart in the starting lineup that changes sooner than later. He has the capabilities to be a above average defender, especially with the tutelage he’ll receive from Ben Wallace. Defense is all about angles and staying in position even in today’s position-less era. Being in the proper position also plays a pivotal role with interior defense and rebounding.
The Pistons big man should make rebounding his calling card. He was a terror on the offensive glass last season, recording several games of 4+ offensive rebounds. Utilizing constant moving he averaged 2.3 offensive rebounds as a rookie. Expect those numbers to increase with more minutes.
On the defensive end he’ll need help from his team. In order to stay home and secure the rebounds guard containment is a must. If Stewart is constantly leaving his man to help he won’t be in rebounding position. His teammates will rely on him and vise versa, as defensive teams have cohesiveness and play on a string. Stewart will grow in his role with the starting unit and defense and rebounding should be why. So look forward to Beef Stew’s progression in these areas, as it will directly impact wins and losses.