The Detroit Pistons emerged as one of the NBA’s biggest success stories during the 2025-26 season, turning a young core into a 60-win team and the Eastern Conference’s top seed. Now, after a second-round playoff exit, the organization appears prepared to make difficult decisions in an effort to take the next step.
According to Sam Amick of The Athletic, league sources say Pistons big man Isaiah Stewart is available in trade discussions as Detroit searches for additional shooting and playmaking. The report also indicated that the Pistons are prepared to lean more heavily on veteran frontcourt reserve Paul Reed and have interest in perimeter players such as Austin Reaves, should he reach unrestricted free agency, and Oklahoma City Thunder guard Isaiah Joe.
The development comes despite Stewart remaining a productive and valuable member of Detroit’s rotation. The 25-year-old appeared in 58 games during the 2025-26 season, averaging 10.0 points, 5.0 rebounds and 1.6 blocks in 22.7 minutes per game while shooting 55.0% from the field. His defensive versatility allowed him to play alongside center Jalen Duren or anchor second-unit lineups.
Stewart is entering the third season of a four-year, $60 million contract extension and has two years remaining on his deal, including a team option in the final season. That contract structure enhances his trade value, giving interested teams cost certainty and flexibility while acquiring a proven interior defender.
Detroit’s willingness to explore Stewart’s market reflects the strength of its frontcourt depth. Duren established himself as one of the league’s rising centers during the regular season, averaging 19.5 points and 10.5 rebounds across 70 starts. Reed also provided reliable minutes off the bench, potentially making Stewart the most logical frontcourt piece to move if the Pistons pursue upgrades elsewhere.
The Pistons’ priorities appear clear. Additional perimeter creation and floor spacing could complement franchise cornerstone Cade Cunningham and help address areas exposed during the postseason. Despite finishing with the NBA’s best regular-season record at 60-22, Detroit was eliminated by the Cleveland Cavaliers in seven games in the Eastern Conference semifinals after holding a 2-0 series lead.
That playoff defeat may have reinforced the need for more offensive versatility around Cunningham and Duren. Stewart’s value as a rim protector and physical defender remains significant, but Detroit’s roster construction could make him one of its most attractive trade assets.
Detroit Free Press reporter Omari Sankofa recently noted that Stewart is widely respected around the league and described his contract as a reasonable deal for one of the NBA’s better rim protectors. Teams seeking frontcourt toughness, interior defense and positional flexibility are likely to have interest if the Pistons actively engage in trade talks.
