Isaiah Stewart is currently serving a 7-game suspension for his part in a recent brawl between the Pistons and Hornets, but there could be unexpected benefits for his postseason durability. Last year, Stew missed most of the Pistons' first-round series against the Knicks and his absence might've made all the difference. If he and his teammates are able to stay healthy this season through the playoffs, it will be a major boon for Detroit.
The Pistons need Isaiah Stewart healthy in the playoffs
We've all seen the countless jokes online about how Stewart lives for altercations in the NBA. But the truth is that he's been one of the best defenders in the Association all season long, and it's powering the Pistons to their dominant performance. Statistically, Beef Stew has been the best rim protector in the NBA by a wide margin; he is allowing opponents to shoot just 42.7% at the rim!
Say what you will about Stew, but his impact on the court cannot be denied. His teammates know how much he means to the team, both for his on-court play and how he sets the culture. Whenever he's on the court (and even when he's on the bench), Stewart brings a trademark intensity that has defined the Pistons' success.
And his defensive impact goes beyond his ability to protect the paint too. At 6'8" and 250lbs, he has the agility to guard wings and occasionally guards on the perimeter as well. In fact, he's one of the most switchable and versatile defenders in the league. His loss against the Knicks last year was particularly painful because he's one of the few bigs capable of keeping up with Karl-Anthony Towns' shooting and dribbling.
Historically, Stewart has faced injury struggles when playing high minutes due to his intense style. One of coach JB Bickerstaff's most underrated adjustments has been limiting his minutes - 19.9 per game last season and 23.3 this season - to fully unleash him in that time. But he still ran into knee inflammation that kept him out beyond the first game of the 2025 playoffs.
Ironically, Stewart's suspension might be the best method for ensuring his health. He will be forced to miss games against some of the top teams in the league, including the Knicks, Thunder and Spurs. Against these vaunted opponents, Stewart would certainly bring his highest intensity just as the Pistons are entering the stretch run of the season.
Keeping Stewart sidelined for these important games might actually do more to guarantee his health for the postseason than any preventive measure could. Even though the Pistons want to continue piling up more impressive wins in the regular season, their main focus should be getting ready for the playoffs. And Isaiah Stewart's suspension has helped them do just that.