The Detroit Pistons took a major step forward during the 2025-26 season, finishing with an NBA-best 60-22 record in the Eastern Conference. Even so, one of their key frontcourt pieces could emerge as a name to watch this offseason.
Detroit Free Press reporter Omari Sankofa reported on Detroit Free Press that Isaiah Stewart is likely to be discussed in trade conversations around the league.
Sankofa wrote, “Will his name come up in trade talks? I’m sure of it. He has two years and $30 million remaining on his contract – a very reasonable figure for one of the league’s top rim protectors. Postseason performance aside, Stewart is a coveted player.”
Stewart, 25, remains under contract after completing the second season of a four-year, $60 million extension. He has two years remaining on the deal, including a team option in the final year, giving Detroit valuable roster flexibility.
The big man played 58 games during the regular season and averaged 10.0 points, 5.0 rebounds and 1.6 blocks in 22.7 minutes per game. He shot 55.0% from the field and continued to provide physical interior defense while splitting time between the starting lineup and the bench.
His role became especially important on a Pistons roster that featured emerging All-Star center Jalen Duren. Duren averaged 19.5 points and 10.5 rebounds while starting all 70 games he played, establishing himself as a foundational piece alongside franchise star Cade Cunningham.
That frontcourt dynamic could be one reason Stewart’s name surfaces in trade discussions. Detroit has significant depth in the paint, with Duren, Stewart and Paul Reed all logging rotation minutes during the regular season. Stewart’s ability to defend multiple frontcourt positions and protect the rim also makes him attractive to teams seeking defensive upgrades.
