Unlikely or not, the on-court fit is undeniable.
Los Angeles Lakers v Minnesota Timberwolves
Los Angeles Lakers v Minnesota Timberwolves / David Berding/GettyImages
The Los Angeles Lakers are in the midst of a stretch that has fans, analysts, and even detractors searching for answers far and wide. Los Angeles isn't just losing, but reinventing ways to endure defeat in the most overwhelmingly abysmal ways possible.
As the Lakers look to the trade market for resolutions to their otherwise baffling questions, an unlikely candidate could be found in Detroit.
The Lakers have lost four different games by at least 25 points in less than a month. It's been one of the worst stretches in franchise history. Los Angeles has also been searching for answers at center for the better part of two seasons.
Despite the well-documented scuffle that took place in 2021, a former LeBron James rival would be an ideal addition to a team in need.
For those unfamiliar, James and Detroit Pistons center Isaiah Stewart infamously engaged in a fight in 2021. As such, it seems highly unlikely that the two will one day become teammates, especially with other trade options available.
Despite the checkered history, however, Stewart would be an excellent addition to the Lakers' rotation—if he and James can get on the same page.
Isaiah Stewart an unlikely but ideal Lakers trade target
Stewart, 23, is a young, productive, and versatile big with a 7'4.75" wingspan and 250-pound frame that fall right in line with what the Lakers need at center. He's also a potentially available trade target due to the recent decline in his playing time.
According to Michael Scotto of Hoops Hype, Stewart's lesser role under head coach J.B. Bickerstaff has executives believing he could be available in trade discussions.
"Isaiah Stewart is starting a four-year, $60 million contract this season while coming off the bench for the first time since his rookie season, leaving executives around the league to believe he’ll be available on the trade market."
If that proves to be the case, then the Lakers would be wise to kick the proverbial tires.
Stewart's strong frame and length have made him one of the more intriguing young bigs in the NBA. He puts those physical attributes to impressive use, posting career averages of 12.7 points, 10.5 rebounds, 3.4 offensive boards, 1.8 assists, 1.5 blocks, and 1.0 three-point field goal made per 36 minutes.
Stewart's ability to create second chances, battle for positioning on the defensive glass, and block shots should have the Lakers intrigued.
Isaiah Stewart provides two-way value Anthony Davis, Lakers need
It's also worth noting that Stewart shot 38.3 percent on 175 attempts from beyond the arc during the 2023-24 regular season. That 3-and-D potential from the center position makes him a perfect complement to Lakers franchise player Anthony Davis.
Stewart can bang down low, but he's just as capable of providing spacing to enable Davis to continue to excel as an interior scoring threat.
It can't be glossed over that James and Stewart have questionable history together, but the talent and fit is undeniable. If they're willing to bury the hatchet, they could become productive teammates, with Stewart providing the brand of two-way value the team simply lacks beyond Davis among its interior players.
It may be unlikely to transpire, but the Lakers must weigh every option as they evaluate the best path forward in the hopes of salvaging a deflating season.