The Detroit Pistons are facing a bit of a challenge as forward/center Isaiah Stewart has been sidelined with a Grade 1 left calf strain. The team announced on Tuesday that Stewart will miss at least the next four games and will be re-evaluated in a week. This means Stewart will be absent for crucial matchups against the Washington Wizards, Golden State Warriors, and Los Angeles Lakers.
While the injury isn't severe, it's a setback for the Pistons, who are clinging to a 3.5-game lead over the Boston Celtics for the top seed in the Eastern Conference. The Celtics, with Jayson Tatum back, have been on a roll, winning seven of their last ten games. In contrast, the Pistons have struggled, going 3-5 in their last eight outings, including a recent 119-108 loss to the Toronto Raptors.
The silver lining? Detroit has a couple of games against the struggling Wizards, offering a chance to regain momentum.
However, Stewart's injury is a lingering issue that's been bothering him all season. Head coach JB Bickerstaff noted, “It’s something he’s been dealing with.
It just had been getting worse.” Stewart's grit was evident as he played through the pain, but it’s clear the team is taking a cautious approach to ensure he's fully fit for the playoffs.
In Stewart’s absence, Paul Reed, Ron Holland II, and Javonte Green are expected to step up. Reed, in particular, will take on a bigger role as the backup big man behind Jalen Duren.
Stewart has been a defensive powerhouse for the Pistons, averaging 10.0 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks per game while shooting an impressive 54.1 percent from the field. His defensive contributions are highlighted by his 90 blocks this season, a feat matched only by Wizards' Alex Sarr among players with fewer than 1,300 minutes.
The Pistons will be hoping for a swift recovery for Stewart, as his presence is vital to their defensive strategy and overall success as they push towards the postseason.