The Celtics have put together a competitive season despite sustained issues in the frontcourt. While Daniel Theis, Enes Kanter, and Robert Williams have been able to provide patchwork production at center, the Celtics are in need of a stable long-term option at the five. Isaiah Stewart fits the bill.
While many will question Stewart’s ability to hold up in the modern NBA, especially on defense, he was too productive and too hard a worker at Washington to flop entirely. He will carve out easy baskets at the rim, he’s a dominant presence on the glass, and he will gallantly protect the rim — even if he is limited to drop coverage.
Boston needs someone who can put pressure on the rim, run the floor, and finish easy shots. It’s not hard to be a productive big man next to the Celtics’ wealth of perimeter talent and playmakers. This is a pretty sweet deal for Stewart, and probably a good get for Boston as well.