Detroit Pistons center Isaiah Stewart may be up for grabs and available in the trade market for this season if insider reports are to be believed. This was following his apparent “demotion” and lack of significant role in most games of the Pistons this season, which was a noticeable change from being a consistent starter since his rookie season with the team.
In a new report by NBA insider Michael Scotto, Isaiah Stewart is allegedly expected by a number of NBA executives to be put on the trade market by the Pistons, mainly due to the team not fully utilizing him this season.
To recall, Stewart signed a four-year contract with the Pistons in 2023 for $60 million.
Trade rumors surrounding Isaiah Stewart are no longer new, as several teams have reportedly been considering him for a potential trade. This included the Boston Celtics, Oklahoma City Thunder, and the Dallas Mavericks.
Another team that has long been rumored to be eyeing Stewart for a potential trade deal is the Los Angeles Lakers. Under the helm of the new head coach JJ Redick, the Lakers have repeatedly admitted that defense is an area that they have to work on right now.
The Lakers do not lack offensive power, with star players like LeBron James and Anthony Davis making the team’s points. However, with their holes in defense, the team could benefit greatly from a good defensive player like Isaiah Stewart.
Isaiah Stewart: “The Anchor Of The Detroit Pistons Defense”
Since getting drafted as the 16th overall pick in the first round of the 2020 NBA draft season, Isaiah Stewart has been a consistent part of the Piston’s starting team. However, his role saw a “downgrade” this season as he got benched more than ever this season, and his role shifted to being a backup center.
Still, all things considered, some people still consider Stewart “the anchor of the Detroit Pistons defense.”
“It’s not an easy game, but I have pride,” Stewart said in an interview. “I can’t go home and look at my wife if I don’t give my full effort on defense. That’s how seriously I take defense.”
In the interview, Stewart also touched on his mindset coming into every game he plays in.
“For me, it’s just about not bowing down. I don’t bow down to anyone. Each game, I come to conquer the paint,” Isaiah Stewart said. “So, when these elite players come in, I’m letting them know that they aren’t getting an easy shot all game. I’m fine maintaining that intensity the entire night.”
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