After years of hard-nosed Detroit basketball, Isaiah Stewart has been placed on the trading block by the Pistons. Stew has served his team well as a dominant defender and leader, but he’s unfortunately become expendable as the Pistons search for more offensive help on the perimeter. It’s not a decision made easily, but probably the right one considering the Pistons’ logjam at the center position.
It makes sense to trade Stewart now
The Pistons couldn’t have experienced their success in the last two seasons without Stewart. His world-class defense, especially as a paint protector, and improving offense helped pave the way for the Pistons to re-establish a winning culture. But the Pistons also saw the limitations of that playstyle, and Stewart’s own contributions, in the playoffs.
After all their regular-season success, Detroit was still left with some regrets about not pursuing additional scorers and creators. But they’re determined not to make that mistake again, even if it comes at the cost of their spiritual leader.
Stewart’s status as a tradable piece has less to do with him than the Pistons’ roster construction. They already have an All-Star center in Jalen Duren and another excellent backup on a cheaper contract in Paul Reed. The Pistons have also proven they’re ready to make serious noise in the playoffs if they can just add some better guards, which is where Stewart can help them.
Around the league, Stewart should be seen as a great trade target. He’s on a very team-friendly deal making just $15 million for each of the next two seasons, with the second of those being a team option. With his current production, Stewart is worth far more than that contract.
The Pistons won’t give up Stewart in the wrong deal
With Stewart’s versatile skillset, including the ability to switch out onto perimeter players and even hit threes at a decent clip, he should have plenty of trade suitors. That gives Detroit an opportunity to maximize his return and force other teams to bid against each other.Â
Although Stewart’s time on the Pistons may have run out, that doesn’t mean they should just give him up for a player that doesn’t move the needle. His value right now goes far beyond his play on the court, since he’s also a locker room leader. Giving up a player like that willy-nilly for a mediocre scoring guard would be a dire mistake.
If/when Stewart does get moved, the Pistons better do it for a good guard (ideally with strong two-way play) or as part of a blockbuster package for a big piece. Anything less would disrespect what Isaiah Stewart means to the Detroit Pistons and the player he’s become.
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