The Boston Celtics overhauled their roster this summer. They had one of the busiest summers in the NBA. in the process, this team shifted their identity.
For a long time, the Celtics have been built around versatile frontcourt defenders. This summer, they flipped the script. The Celtics acquired one of the best perimeter defenders in the NBA in Jrue Holiday. Meanwhile, by landing Kristaps Porzingis and losing Robert Williams III, they traded some defense for some offense.
It looks like those decisions are paying off. The Celtics are one of the best teams in the NBA this year. Still, Boston could use another versatile frontcourt defender. How about Isaiah Stewart of the Detroit Pistons?
The Trade Proposal
Detroit Pistons receive: F Oshae Brissett, G/F Delano Banton, 2025 First-Round Pick (Lottery Protected – BOS)
Boston Celtics receive: F/C Isaiah Stewart
By contrast, the Pistons stayed the course. This team didn’t make any splashy acquisitions last summer. They added Joe Harris, and otherwise, any roster move they made was through the draft.
Was that the right decision? It would be difficult to make that case. It’s fine that Detroit is losing. This team is young. On the other hand, they were the worst team in the NBA in 2022-23: and this season, they look worse.
What is the solution? That’s a more difficult question. Some would have the Pistons overhaul their roster. Others would see them make more incremental moves and play the lottery again this summer. Does this deal help their bottom line?
Why The Detroit Pistons Do The Deal
One thing is clear: this season is lost for the Pistons. They aren’t going to be participating in the play-in tournament. Moves that are designed to win now would require the Pistons to waste assets.
Stewart is a solid rotation player. He’s the type of role player that should help any winning team. That’s exactly why Detroit doesn’t need him. They’re the worst team in the NBA. So, the Pistons need assets.
They’re picking one up here. Stewart isn’t likely to land them an unprotected first, but the Celtics aren’t likely to slip into the lottery either. This pick should convey. Should the Celtics give it up?
Why The Boston Celtics Do The Deal
In simple terms, the Celtics do this deal to replace Williams III. They could use a big man who can defend in space. Al Horford is aging, and Porzingis is more of a stationary rim protector.
Stewart can do that. He can also knock down triples with impressive consistency. This is a highly valuable utility player. Stewart can guard multiple positions, and he can shoot.
He’s also much better than either of the players that Boston is parting with here. They shouldn’t mind sacrificing a pick for him, either. Stewart is young, and the Celtics are contenders. If he’s on the trade block, it may be time for the Celtics to make some moves again.
