The Philadelphia 76ers should consider acquiring a Detroit Pistons center who is available for trade.
Finding support for center Joel Embiid needs to be a priority for the Philadelphia 76ers this offseason.
Whether that means re-signing Andre Drummond, selecting a big man with the No. 22 pick, signing a center in free agency, or making a trade, having the proper backups in place for the seven-time All-Star is important. Embiid appeared in just 38 games in the 2025-2026 season, proving how crucial having another solid center is for Philadelphia.
One option, if the 76ers take the latest route mentioned, is Detroit Pistons center Isaiah Stewart, who, according to The Athletic's Sam Amick, is available for trade.
"League sources say Detroit Pistons big man Isaiah Stewart is available," Amick wrote. "The Pistons, in search of additional shooting and playmakers, appear ready to rely on seventh-year big man Paul Reed in an increased role. Stewart has two years and a combined $30 million left on his deal (team option in the second season)."
Stewart was the Pistons' sixth man this past season, as he backed up first-time All-Star Jalen Duren. He shined in that role, averaging 10.0 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks on 55.0% shooting in 58 games played.
The 25-year-old is a physical big man, who sometimes allows his emotions to distract him during games. Still, he contributes on both ends of the floor, plays hard, and can even stretch the floor a bit.
The biggest downside to landing Stewart is it would likely mean losing Quentin Grimes or Kelly Oubre Jr. in a sign-and-trade. So, Philadelphia's new-look front office would need to decide if Stewart is more valuable than retaining one of its key free agents.
Another negative with Stewart is he's rather small for a center, coming in at just 6 foot 8, 250 pounds. If he's forced to go up against Victor Wembanyama or Nikola Jokic, it's possible he's bullied in those matchups.
Grimes and Oubre were key contributors to the 76ers' rotation in 2026, so giving one of them up is a tough price to pay but may be worthwhile to support Embiid properly.
Join The 76ersRoundtable
Head over to the 76ersRoundtable page and hit the "Join" button under the featured story... it's completely FREE! You'll have the opportunity to engage with other 76ers fans who live and breathe the team, share your thoughts on the organization, and more. If you're asked to sign up or download the Roundtable app... that's free too.
Anthony Pasciolla is the publisher of 76ersRoundtable. He can be reached via email at [email protected] or followed on X @AnthonyPasci.
