Bittersweet emotions for Isaiah Stewart after the trade to the Memphis Grizzlies was confirmed.
His departure came as something of a surprise, since he was regarded as a fairly important piece in the Pistons’ framework.
Nevertheless, while the future of his former teammate Jalen Duren is still being debated, Stewart starts a new chapter with the Tennessee franchise as they embark on a fresh rebuild.
“My agent called me a couple of minutes before and told me. Hey, Trajan called. He’s saying he has secured an offer from Memphis that they can’t refuse,” Stewart recalled.
“At first I thought. It’s the first time in my career that I’m being traded! New teammates, a new system… My mind began to wander. And honestly, I’m grateful because I’m in a place where I’m truly wanted. The fans already respect me and care for me. I prefer to be in a situation where I’m wanted rather than returning to one that’s not ideal for me,” he explained.
Stewart, a product of the University of Washington, was selected by the Pistons with the 16th pick in the 2020 NBA Draft.
In six official seasons, he has averaged 8.8 points and 6.8 rebounds in 24.3 minutes per game.
