CLEVELAND — Detroit Pistons big man Isaiah Stewart returned to the rotation Tuesday after serving a seven-game suspension for his role in a pre-All-Star break altercation with the Charlotte Hornets.
Coach J.B. Bickerstaff was glad to have his top frontcourt reserve back.
“There’s so much he brings to the table on both ends of the floor,” Bickerstaff said. “Intangibles, his spirit, his energy, his effort. … It’ll be great to have him back from a basketball standpoint, but from a personal standpoint and emotional standpoint.”
Even opposing coaches recognize the value.
Kenny Atkinson of the Cavaliers said Stewart’s impact sometimes gets overlooked.
“He fits perfectly their style of play,” Atkinson said. “I don’t think he gets enough credit because he’s such a physical player, but he’s a skilled player … gives them another great rim protector.”
Rotation remains deep
Bickerstaff also indicated Detroit plans to keep leaning on its depth.
“I don’t think so,” he said when asked if the rotation might shrink. “We’re so comfortable with the depth and the guys we have.”
Traditionally, nine players make up a playoff rotation. The Pistons are still closer to 12.
“We’re struggling to get away from 12,” Bickerstaff said.
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