Some NBA fans believe that a big man should anchor a defense. There’s some truth in that position. As a general rule, it’s’ easier to build a strong defense if your big man is able to anchor it.
Sure. At the same time, there are exceptions to every rule. Just ask the Houston Rockets. This team is turning a corner, and Alperen Sengun is a big reason.
The team has a winning record, and Sengun has been their best player. He’s a gifted offensive player.
With that said, Sengun does have some limitations on defense. So, the Rockets should aim to bring in players who can complement him.
How about Isaiah Stewart of the Detroit Pistons?
NBA Trade Proposal: Houston Rockets Land Detroit Pistons’ Isaiah Stewart
Detroit Pistons Receive: G/F Victor Oladipo, C Jock Landale, 2024 First-Round Pick (Top 4 Protected – BKN via HOU), 2024 Second-Round Pick (OKC via HOU), 2025 Second-Round Pick (HOU)
Houston Rockets Receive: F/C Isaiah Stewart
With that said, the first priority for any rebuilding team is talent. That doesn’t mean that it’s the last priority. A team needs talent, and then, they need players that work with that talent.
The Rockets have a nice roster around Sengun already. Ironically, that probably wasn’t their intention. This team has picked in the lottery for three consecutive seasons.
Who knew that their brightest prospect would be an unathletic big man that they traded for in the middle of their first round?
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Isaiah Stewart, Detroit Pistons, Houston Rockets Updates
By contrast, the Pistons have a lot of talent. It doesn’t seem to fit. This team has too many lead ball-handlers and not enough shooting. They’ve also got too many big men.
Should they really move on from Stewart?
Why The Detroit Pistons Do The Deal
Some Pistons fans will say no. In fairness, he’s the second-best big on this roster behind Jalen Duren. That’s part of why they’d move him.
The Pistons could shop James Wiseman or Marvin Bagley III, but they wouldn’t get this type of return for him. More than anything, they’re coveting the Brooklyn pick here.
Sure, it’s protected – it will likely convey. The Nets have too much talent to send a top 4 pick this summer. Meanwhile, a couple of second-round picks are here to sweeten the pot.
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Isaiah Stewart, Detroit Pistons, Houston Rockets Updates
Oladipo’s expiring contract doesn’t hurt, either. Landale is on a long-term contract, but it’s marginal. The Pistons do this deal because they’re the worst team in the NBA, and they need assets.
Should the Rockets be sending assets out?
Why The Houston Rockets Do The Deal
The Rockets look good. They still have a couple of needs. They could use some shooting, but perhaps more importantly, they could use a better backup big. Landale has been disappointing in 2023-24.
Stewart would be quite the upgrade. Meanwhile, he’s a versatile combo big who can guard the perimeter to some extent. That’s what makes him such a desirable target for the Rockets.
Stewart can play alongside Sengun, and he can also play behind him. What are the odds of the Rockets finding such a useful player with the Nets pick?
NBA NEWS & TRADE RUMORS: Isaiah Stewart, Detroit Pistons, Houston Rockets Updates
This team should be looking at proven commodities by now. The Rockets’ goal is to continue winning – even if Sengun isn’t anchoring their defense.
