Pistons vs. Bulls: Could Isaiah Stewart Return on Tuesday?

Following a controversial loss against the New York Knicks on Monday night, the Detroit Pistons won’t have much time to rest as they are back on the floor again on Tuesday to take on the Chicago Bulls.

For the first time in weeks, the Pistons were presented with an opportunity to potentially get their veteran center, Isaiah Stewart, back in the mix.

Barring any changes, Stewart is on pace to be available for Tuesday’s game.

The veteran’s absence as of late hasn’t just been due to the fact he’s suspended. Prior to Stewart’s recent altercation, he’s been battling an ankle injury, which had him off the floor well before the Pistons entered the 2024 NBA All-Star break.

His latest appearance took place on January 28. As the Pistons went head-to-head with the Oklahoma City Thunder at home, Stewart checked in for a 25-minute shift.

A few nights later, Stewart was ruled out against the Cleveland Cavaliers. It was his first absence since Detroit’s six-point loss against the Milwaukee Bucks on January 20.

Stewart was ruled out for eight games. The plan was for the Pistons to head into the All-Star break with hopes of getting Stewart ramped up in time for him to make his return after getting an additional week off.

Before the Pistons reached the break, Stewart was involved in an off-court altercation ahead of the team’s road matchup against the Phoenix Suns. While Stewart’s legal charges were dropped, he was still hit with a suspension by the NBA — banning him for three games.

Last Wednesday, Stewart practiced for the Pistons ahead of their Thursday night matchup against the Indiana Pacers. He was questionable to play before getting ruled out due to the suspension decision.

Stewart missed Detroit’s matchups against the Pacers, Orlando Magic, and the Knicks. Facing the Bulls for the third time this year, Stewart is on pace to make his return this week.