After the Pistons’ win over the Trailblazers, coach JB Bickerstaff called Isaiah Stewart “the best defensive center in the league”. It’s high praise for Stewart but he backs it up with tenacious rim protection and excellent timing. Stewart’s defensive brilliance has helped the Pistons to an 18-5 record despite inconsistent offensive performances.
Isaiah Stewart’s defense is undeniable
In the win, Stewart had an impressive 4 blocks. All of these were denials right at the rim - arguably the most valuable plays that a defender can make. These rejections catapulted Stewart into third place this season in total blocks, while typically coming off the bench and playing just 22 minutes per game.
Stewart was especially brilliant on defense in the second half. He had a highlight meeting the uber athletic Shaedon Sharpe at the rim in the fourth quarter. Defensive plays like that helped keep the game close enough for superstar Cade Cunningham to put away in clutch time.
Unsurprisingly, “Beef Stew” finished with the best plus-minus on the team. The Pistons won his minutes by 10 points in a close game. All season long, Stewart has been a crucial piece for the Pistons and helped build the defensive infrastructure that keeps winning games. His consistent effort and ability to erase teammates’ mistakes makes the Pistons a desirable destination.
Fans and analysts alike will certainly poke holes at Bickerstaff’s assertion that Stewart is the very best defensive center in the league. He’s got some tough contenders for that title in rising superstar Victor Wembanyama and 4-time DPOY Rudy Gobert. But Stewart arguably has key advantages over both those titans.
Although Stewart has grown into one of the league’s top shot blockers, he’s still very nimble for a big at 6’8” and 250lbs. His quick feet make him much more switchable than Gobert, which is an important trait for a defender in 2025. Wemby has similar defensive advantages to Stewart, but additionally amplified by his 7’4” frame.
However, Stewart’s availability gives him an argument over even Wembanyama. This season, Wemby has already been sidelined for an extended period after having his season cut short by an injury last season. On the other hand, Stewart has only had minor injuries - although he is more likely to miss games with suspension.
If you ask dedicated Pistons fans, they will all recognize Stewart’s defensive impact immediately. He’s never afraid to contest any shot in his vicinity, even at the risk of getting dunked on. This elevates the entire team defense by allowing his teammates to play more aggressively and force turnovers.
Isaiah Stewart is well on his way to establishing himself as one of the NBA’s best defensive centers. He’s been nothing short of brilliant on that end this season. As the Pistons continue to dominate defensively, Stew may one day get the same respect nationally that his coach and teammates already have for him.