The Detroit Pistons have tasked Paul Reed with replacing Isaiah Stewart's defensive presence after trading Stewart to Memphis. This shift comes as the team looks to rebound from a tough 94-125 loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers on May 18, 2026, which extended a recent skid where they lost their last two games.
Can Paul Reed Replace Isaiah Stewart's Defense?
Paul Reed, known as B-Ball Paul, is now the projected backup center. He moves up the depth chart following the trade of Isaiah Stewart to the Memphis Grizzlies during the draft. The Pistons drafted Ugonna Onyenso partly to address the rim protection lost in that deal. Onyenso averaged 2.9 blocks per game for Virginia last season.
But Onyenso signed a two-way contract and will compete with Tolu Smith for the third-string role. So Reed will absorb most of the minutes and defensive responsibility Stewart left behind. He has already made a strong impression in Detroit with his high-energy, impactful play in short bursts.
What Makes Reed an Elite Defensive Playmaker?
According to BBall Index, Paul Reed actually ranks above San Antonio's Victor Wembanyama in defensive playmaking among NBA centers. He holds a 6.6 rating on their scale. This rating formula considers steals, deflections, blocks, and offensive fouls drawn per 75 minutes of play.
Reed's ability to make plays on defense is significant. Minute-for-minute, he is one of the better play-making big men in the league on both ends of the floor. His activity level creates turnovers and disrupts opposing offenses consistently. You can track his progress and the team's defensive stats on our stats page.
Is Reed's Size a Problem for the Pistons?
At 6-foot-9 and 210 pounds, Reed is undersized compared to many traditional NBA centers. This could be a concern when matching up against bigger opponents in the paint. However, Isaiah Stewart also wasn't the tallest center during his time in Detroit.
Reed uses his leverage and quickness to his advantage defensively. He hasn't let his size stop him from being an effective defender. The Pistons' system will need to adapt, but his past performance suggests it may not be a major hindrance. The team's overall defensive identity, which you can see in the standings, will be tested.
What Does This Mean for Detroit's Defense?
Isaiah Stewart built a reputation as a fearless rim protector. His presence made the paint a no-fly zone and was central to the Pistons' defensive identity. Paul Reed's challenge is to re-establish that intimidating presence for the 2026-27 campaign.
Reed brings a different style. He is more of a playmaker who generates steals and deflections. The Pistons will need his all-around defensive activity to compensate for any loss in pure shot-blocking. How this adjustment works will be key for a team with a recent form of 2 wins and 3 losses in its last five outings. Fans can watch this new-look defense develop by checking the upcoming schedule.
