Pistons Isaiah Stewart Handed Suspension for Drew Eubanks Altercation
In their last game before the All-Star break, Detroit Pistons big man got into a physical altercation with Phoenix Suns center Drew Eubanks. Just as the team gets ready to resume play, the NBA has handed out a punishment for the events.
On Thursday afternoon, the NBA issued a press release regarding Stewart. He has been issued a three-game suspension for the events that transpired on February 14th.
Stewart and Eubanks got into a war of words in the tunnel pregame. Things escalated, and the Pistons big man eventually struck Eubanks. Phoenix police ended up arresting Stewart and issued him a citation before his release. His court date has been set for February 23rd.
Stewart's suspension will begin on Thursday night as the Pistons are slated to take on the Indiana Pacers. He will be able to make his return to action on February 27th against the Chicago Bulls.
Stewart, 22, is in the midst of his fourth season with the Pistons. On the year, he is averaging 11.0 PPG, 6.8 RPG, and 1.7 APG.
With Stewart out of the lineup for the next three games, Monty Williams will have to make some adjustments to his rotations. It also means that one member of the second unit will be promoted to the starting lineup.
Facing off against a young and athletic team like the Pacers, Ausar Thompson could get the nod to start in place of Stewart. His athleticism should help Detroit keep up with Pacers' fast-paced offense.
After the Pacers, Stewart will miss matchups against the Orlando Magic and New York Knicks.
