Kofi Inkoom
New Detroit Pistons president Trajan Langdon has a significant task ahead in transforming the team’s roster into a competitive one.
He has numerous options at his disposal: trading young players, using or trading a top-5 draft pick, and utilizing $65 million in cap space to acquire key starters or future assets.
Reportedly, the Pistons are actively exploring trade opportunities for Isaiah Stewart this summer, according to Jake Fischer of Yahoo Sports.
“There appears to be a wide range of starting-caliber big men available for trade…And the Detroit Pistons are evaluating the market for Isaiah Stewart, according to league sources.” Fischer notes.
At 23 years old, Stewart has three years remaining on his contract after signing a four-year, $64 million extension last season. This deal includes a team option for the final year, making him an enticing mid-term acquisition for interested teams.
Despite the Pistons’ struggles, Stewart posted averages of 10.9 points, 6.6 rebounds, and 1.6 assists per game last season. His shooting efficiency also saw an uptick, with a field goal percentage of 48.7% and a three-point percentage of 38.3%.
Throughout his career, Stewart has played 235 games, starting in 177 of them. His career averages include 9.3 points, 7.6 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game, while maintaining a 49.8% field goal percentage and a 34.8% success rate from beyond the arc.
Stewart would be appealing to many playoff teams aiming to strengthen their main rotation with a versatile big man who can stretch the floor, rebound effectively, and defend multiple positions.
Last season, the Boston Celtics expressed interest in Stewart, and it’s likely they will revisit the possibility of acquiring him this summer. What the Pistons could receive in return for Stewart remains uncertain.