Photo: Mark J. Rebilas ~ Imagn Images
DETROIT ~ The Detroit Pistons made one of their more surprising offseason moves last night, trading longtime big man Isaiah Stewart to the Memphis Grizzlies in a deal that signals a clear shift in direction. Detroit sent Stewart to Memphis in exchange for three future second-round draft picks, essentially prioritizing flexibility and long-term assets over keeping one of its most physical interior players. The move came during the 2026 NBA Draft and continues a trend of aggressive roster reshaping as the Pistons look to build around their young core.
From a basketball standpoint, Stewart leaves behind a meaningful presence on the court. The 25-year-old averaged 10 points, five rebounds and 1.6 blocks per game during the 2025-26 season while shooting an efficient 55%. He also showed growth as a modern big, hitting 33.3% from 3-point range and providing defensive versatility in Detroit’s frontcourt. In stretches, he was one of the team’s most impactful defenders, helping anchor a unit that ranked among the better defenses in the league thanks to his rim protection and physicality.
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June 25, 2026 ~ Recapping the Pistons trade yesterday as Isaiah Stewart was sent to the Memphis Grizzlies for three second round picks.
(CONTINUED) Still, the trade makes sense when you zoom out and look at Detroit’s roster construction. Stewart’s role had begun to shrink, especially during the playoffs, where he averaged just four points and 2.4 rebounds in limited minutes as the Pistons leaned more heavily on other frontcourt options like Jalen Duren. With Detroit coming off a strong 60-win season but falling short in the postseason, the front office appears focused on improving spacing, offensive creation and financial flexibility. Moving Stewart’s contract, about $15 million annually, opens up cap room while adding draft capital that could be flipped in future deals.
Beyond the numbers, this trade feels like the end of an era for a player who embodied Detroit’s toughness. Stewart, nicknamed “Beef Stew,” was the team’s longest-tenured player and a fan favorite known for his energy and physical edge. While Memphis gains a rugged, defensive-minded big entering his prime, Detroit is clearly betting on upside and roster flexibility moving forward. It’s not a flashy return, but it’s a calculated move, one that could set up a bigger swing as the Pistons continue trying to turn playoff progress into a legitimate championship trajectory.
