The Detroit Pistons regard Isaiah Stewart as the 'NBA's top defender

Pistons head coach J.B. Bickerstaff recently heaped praise on Isaiah Stewart, declaring him the "best defensive center in the league" with no close competition. According to the Detroit Free Press, Bickerstaff believes it is high time the basketball world acknowledges Stewart’s dominance.

However, star guard Cade Cunningham felt his coach was actually underselling it. Cunningham argued that Stewart isn't just the best center, but the "best defender in the league" overall, noting he deserves Defensive Player of the Year honors and expressing relief that he doesn't have to face Stewart as an opponent.

The numbers back up this high praise. Stewart is averaging 2.0 blocks in only 22.5 minutes per game, recording five outings with at least four blocks this season. Teammate Ausar Thompson highlighted Stewart’s relentless intensity, noting he contests every single shot and sacrifices his body nightly. The Pistons’ collective goal is now evident: transforming Stewart from a solid reserve into a legitimate DPOY contender.