March 2024 grades for the Detroit Pistons: Injuries and regression

Centers: C

Just as was the case with Simone Fontecchio and Ausar Thompson, Isaiah Stewart was limited in the month of March, and would eventually be ruled out for the season. Even with losing Stew, the center positional group for Detroit had a decent month. Isaiah Stewart, Jalen Duren, and James Wiseman all saw their field goal percentages increase (Stew up 12%, Duren up 5%, and Wiseman up 1%). 

Outside of his increased field goal percentages, however, Duren did struggle a bit compared to February, as his rebounds, assists, and blocks decreased. Still, those decreased stats are only down by a few decimals, meaning it isn’t the end of the world. Stewart’s assists and steals per game increased, but what was most promising was his three point shooting. After shooting just 33 percent last month, Isaiah shot 42 percent from deep in March. He has dedicated an enormous amount of time to his perimeter shooting and it’s now showing. 

Wiseman, similar to Stewart, has been putting in the time and his numbers are beginning to reflect it. Over the last few months, James has quietly been putting up numbers that require a second look on whether he belongs on this team next year or not. In March, Wiseman averaged 9.5 points per game, 7.1 rebounds, 1.1 assists and .8 stocks. All of which are up from last month, which was arguably one of his best months as a Piston.