There was quiet optimism surrounding the Detroit Pistons’ center rotation entering the season. Jalen Duren looked to build after his promising first two seasons, despite the inconsistencies that came with them. Isaiah Stewart returned to his natural role at center after spending the previous year as a stretch-four experiment. And Paul Reed, a high-energy big waived by the 76ers, was brought in to bolster the frontcourt depth.
Together, this center trio gave the Pistons a backbone reflected in the win column, bringing toughness and identity to a young roster still learning to compete. Their contrasting styles and shared grit made the center spot one of the team’s consistent bright spots.
Grading Detroit Pistons Centers: Strength, Growth, and Grit Shown
Jalen Duren: The Rising Force at the Heart of the Pistons’ Center Revival
This season was viewed by many as a pivotal one for Jalen Duren. Last season, Duren put up impressive numbers — 13.8 points, 11.6 rebounds, 61.9% shooting from the field, and a surprising 79% from the free-throw line — but his defense raised valid concerns. Despite his elite physical tools and explosive athleticism, Duren recorded just 47 blocks in 61 games. He often struggled to protect the rim and had difficulty staying in front of more agile, skilled bigs. There was a noticeable gap in defensive presence for a player with his profile.
This season, Duren made meaningful strides. While the early season exposed his growing pains, he gradually began to put it together on both ends. Though he continued to have issues against quicker matchups, he started leveraging his size, strength, and instincts more effectively. Offensively, he became a strong playmaker and top lob threat, partnering with Cade Cunningham to lead the league in alley-oops.
Grade: B+
Isaiah Stewart
After spending much of last season as a power forward, Isaiah Stewart returned to his natural position at center and looked far more comfortable. Known for his toughness and motor, Stewart re-established himself as a physical interior defender who doesn’t shy away from contact. He contested shots consistently, fought for positioning in the paint, and brought the edge that helped set the tone for the Pistons’ identity.
Offensively, Stewart made a more concerted effort to go inside. While his three-point percentage dipped slightly, he shot with more confidence from in the paint and in the short mid-range. His offensive game remains raw at times, but he can keep defenders honest despite shooting from deep less frequently.
Grade: A
Paul Reed
Paul Reed joined the Pistons after being waived by the 76ers, bringing with him a reputation for hustle, energy, and defensive grit. Although his minutes were limited, Reed made the most of his opportunities. Whether diving for loose balls, switching onto guards, or contesting shots at the rim, he played with a relentless motor that made an impact beyond the box score.
Although Reed didn’t log enough time to impact Detroit’s season significantly, he made his presence felt whenever he was on the floor. He was a valuable depth piece, thriving in short bursts and providing energy when the Pistons needed it most.
Grade: B-
The Last Word
The Detroit Pistons’ resurgence this season stems from their center rotation’s steady and impactful play. Jalen Duren, Isaiah Stewart, and Paul Reed each brought something unique to the table, but together, they formed a backbone that helped the team get back to winning ways. Duren’s growth as a dominant force in the paint and a skilled playmaker, Stewart’s rugged defense and physicality, and Reed’s relentless energy off the bench all contributed to a more cohesive, competitive squad.
Their collective production strengthened the Pistons’ frontcourt and laid the groundwork for a winning culture to take root. As the Pistons evolve, the centers will remain at the heart of Detroit’s resurgence.
Photo credit: © Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images
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