Ku Khahil here, the host of the daily Locked On Pistons podcast, with your daily Locked On Pistons newsletter. Each day we bring you the biggest stories about the Pistons and the NBA, including the hottest links to other stories you need to read. Plus, Josh Lloyd delivers daily fantasy notes to crush your league.
Isaiah Stewart’s Breakout Season: A Game-Changer for the Detroit Pistons
Detroit Pistons center Isaiah Stewart (28) reacts after a forward Tim Hardaway Jr. (not pictured) score against the Philadelphia 76ers during the fourth quarter at Wells Fargo Center.
| Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images
Isaiah Stewart has been a revelation for the Detroit Pistons this season. Despite limited minutes, Stewart is showcasing what could be the best performance of his career. His role as a center, rather than being forced into a power-forward position, has allowed him to thrive. This strategic shift has been pivotal, enabling him to focus on his strengths both offensively and defensively.
Stewart’s shooting efficiency has reached new heights, with a career-high 55% from the field. His two-point shooting is particularly impressive, standing at 62%. These numbers highlight his improved finishing ability, especially around the rim. In previous seasons, Stewart struggled with layups and finishing plays, but this year, he ranks in the 93rd percentile as a pick-and-roll man and 74th percentile at the rim. This transformation is a testament to his hard work and the coaching staff’s decision to utilize him as a true center.
Defensively, Stewart has also stepped up his game. His presence on the court significantly boosts the Pistons’ defensive rating, making them one of the top defenses in the league when he’s playing. His ability to protect the rim and anchor the defense has been crucial, and his on-off net rating reflects his impact. When Stewart is on the floor, the Pistons’ defensive rating is an impressive 109.9, compared to 113.0 when he’s off.
Zach LaVine: A Potential Target for the Pistons?
The possibility of acquiring Zach LaVine has been a topic of discussion for the Pistons. LaVine’s performance this season has been stellar, with a shooting percentage of 50% from the field and 43% from beyond the arc. His efficiency and ability to play off the ball make him an attractive option for the Pistons, especially alongside Cade Cunningham.
However, LaVine’s contract is a significant consideration. With a hefty salary and a 15% trade kicker, the financial implications are substantial. The Pistons must weigh whether LaVine’s contract aligns with their long-term strategy and if his addition would complement Cunningham’s playstyle. LaVine’s ability to thrive in off-ball situations and his scoring prowess could fill a critical need for the Pistons, but the cost must be justified.
The decision to pursue LaVine hinges on several factors, including his fit with Cunningham and the team’s willingness to absorb his contract. While LaVine’s talent is undeniable, the Pistons must carefully evaluate the potential trade’s impact on their roster and future flexibility.
For more insights and a deeper dive into Isaiah Stewart’s breakout season and the potential acquisition of Zach LaVine, tune into the Locked On Pistons podcast for this and much more.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Pistons Podcast:
- Should the Detroit Pistons be interested in trading for Zach LaVine?
- The impact of Isaiah Stewart’s improved performance on the Pistons’ defense.
- Analysis of Stewart’s role as a center and its benefits.
- Discussion on the Pistons’ strategic direction and potential roster changes.
A common refrain about Spike Lee movies is that the city of New York feels like a living, breathing character. It has a presence in his films beyond that of a typical urban backdrop. It has dialogue; it impacts events.
Well, the Knicks crowd, amplified by the presence of Gotham villain Trae Young, felt three-dimensional in this NBA Cup quarterfinal, moaning, groaning, and cheering every time the ball ricocheted off a body part or players tumbled to the ground. It felt like it could change the events on the court, albeit with little control, like a player tilting a pinball machine. Even from my couch, I could feel the energy pulsing from the screen.
The atmosphere was electric; the quality of play was suspect. I’m not sure I’d let my loved ones watch, but for a specific breed of basketball fan (like the one who subscribes to this newsletter), it was gloriously grimy.
It was a miracle either of these teams hit triple-digits. The ball spent more time squirting out of rugby scrum-style dog piles than it did going through nets. The Knicks posted their lowest offensive rating of the season; the Hawks’ two best players, Jalen Johnson and Trae Young, combined for 43 points on 42 shots. Atlanta started the game 1-for-10 from deep, while New York had a stretch where they missed 12 straight triples.
In the end, however, it was Trae Young rolling phantom dice on the Knicks’ logo to celebrate going to Vegas.
The Hawks defense might be legit. Young is an easy target, but he also suckers teams into getting out of their offense to try and attack him, leaving them vulnerable to the swarm of kinetic, lengthy athletes that are standing by to help at a moment’s notice. Dyson Daniels chewed Jalen Brunson up (14 points on 15 shots), using a toothpick to get every last morsel.
Mike Shearer (@bballispoetry) has written about the NBA full-time since 2021 at various and sundry places. For more from Mike, check out his Substack bestseller, Basketball Poetry, where he uses unnecessary metaphors and the occasional haiku to discuss the NBA’s happenings with an analytical lens.
Home and Away
Roster The Detroit Pistons are shaking up their lineup with Jalen Duren and Isaiah Stewart joining Cade Cunningham in the starting five. This strategic move aims to maximize the team’s potential.
Preview The Detroit Pistons face off against the Boston Celtics today. Check the injury report and game details to stay informed ahead of the matchup. (Detroit Free Press)
Watch Watch Jalen Duren’s defensive highlights as he showcases his skills on the court, making significant contributions to the Pistons’ defense. (Detroit Free Press)
Analysis The quarter-season break offers the Detroit Pistons time to rest, recover, and reset. This pause is crucial for strategizing and improving team performance. (Detroit Free Press)
Rumor What is the league doing to address referee gambling concerns, and how effective can safeguards be? (Front Office Sports)
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Thursday, Dec. 19 | 7:00PM | Little Caesars Arena, Detroit, MI | Get Tickets
Fantasy Cheat Sheet
A Kawhi Leonard Update & A Fantasy Basketball News Catchup
Nov 20, 2024; Inglewood, California, USA; Los Angeles Clippers forward Kawhi Leonard (2) looks on from the bench in the first half against the Orlando Magic at Intuit Dome. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images | Jayne Kamin-Oncea/Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
Kawhi Leonard’s Uncertain Return
Kawhi Leonard’s return remains a topic of speculation. Recent reports suggest that his comeback isn’t imminent, leaving fantasy managers in a bind. If you’re holding onto Leonard, patience is key, but be prepared for a potentially lengthy wait.
Jimmy Butler Trade Rumours
The rumour mill is buzzing with talk of a potential Jimmy Butler trade. While speculation is rife, it’s essential to remember that these rumours often don’t materialise. The complexities of NBA trades, including salary cap constraints and team dynamics, make it challenging to predict outcomes. Instead of getting caught up in the hype, focus on the players currently delivering consistent performances. If Butler does get traded, assess the situation then, but for now, it’s best to concentrate on tangible fantasy assets.
Other Topics in Today’s Locked On Fantasy Basketball Podcast:
- The impact of Mitchell Robinson’s injury on the Knicks’ rotation - Evaluating Max Strus’s fantasy value upon his return - Donovan Clingan’s potential role with the team - The latest on Fred VanVleet’s shooting struggles and assist numbers - A look at the upcoming matchups and their fantasy implications
Stay ahead of the game by keeping these insights in mind as you navigate the ever-changing landscape of NBA fantasy basketball.
Don’t let these episodes pass you by — stay locked in with the latest Locked On Pistons podcasts.
Why Detroit Pistons’ Starting Lineup Needs a Change After 24 Games Are the Detroit Pistons facing a lineup shake-up? With recent struggles, including losing six of their last eight games, the Pistons are at a crossroads. This episode dives into the potential changes to the starting lineup, focusing on Jalen Duren’s performance and the need for more playmaking. Ku and guest Zar explore the impact of Isaiah Stewart and the potential of Ausar Thompson as a key ball-handler
Detroit Pistons’ Lineup Dilemma: Jalen Duren vs. Isaiah Stewart Join host Ku Khahil and guest Omari Sankofa II as they explore the Pistons’ current lineup dynamics, focusing on star player Cade Cunningham’s performance and turnover challenges. They discuss potential roster adjustments, including the roles of Jalen Duren and Isaiah Stewart, and the impact of adding a secondary creator to support Cunningham.
Will Detroit Pistons’ Cade Cunningham Make the All-Star Cut? Can Cade Cunningham elevate the Detroit Pistons to new heights this season? With his impressive stats and undeniable talent, Cunningham’s All-Star potential is a hot topic among NBA fans. Dive into the latest analysis of the Pistons’ challenges at the center position, where Jalen Duren’s future hangs in the balance amidst extension talks. Discover why Jaden Ivey’s role as a point guard is under scrutiny and how his performance could reshape the team’s strategy.
