On Wednesday, the NBA announced disciplinary actions following a brawl during Monday’s game in Charlotte. Isaiah Stewart of the Detroit Pistons received a seven-game suspension, while teammate Jalen Duren was handed a two-game ban. The Hornets’ Miles Bridges and Moussa Diabate were each suspended for four games. Pistons head coach J.B. Bickerstaff acknowledged the suspensions, specifically responding to Stewart’s penalty after the announcement.
Bickerstaff stated,
“I would have liked to see Stew’s (Stewart) number be less, obviously, but as a group we’ve kind of accepted what it is. Our guys will continue to do what they do and be who they are.”
He emphasized the attitude and approach of his frontcourt players, including both Stewart and Duren, highlighting their role in handling the physical demands of the game.
Bickerstaff Highlights the Role of Pistons’ Big Men Amid Physical Play
The coach described his big men as players who take on the tough, often physical tasks that others avoid, setting a tone that frequently results in them facing hard fouls and physical challenges during games. Bickerstaff rejected what he called a “disappointing” narrative that his players always react negatively, instead praising them as elite and intelligent athletes. He expressed frustration at the perception that his players are merely roughhousing, calling such views disrespectful.
The NBA’s decision on Stewart’s seven-game suspension took his prior record into account. Given his history of multiple suspensions, he received the most severe penalty related to the brawl with the Hornets.
Adjusting the Roster: Pistons’ Strategy for Game Without Stewart and Duren
With Stewart and Duren sidelined, Bickerstaff prepared the Pistons for their match against the Toronto Raptors on Wednesday by adjusting his lineup. Paul Reed was inserted as the starting center, stepping up with a strong performance that included 22 points, five rebounds, four blocks, three assists, and three steals across 33 minutes. Detroit outperformed Toronto by 21 points during his time on the court.
In addition, Bickerstaff allocated more playing time to reserve center Tolu Smith, who contributed with three points, three rebounds, and two assists during his 15 minutes. The coach acknowledged that maintaining competitiveness without his primary big men would be a challenge, especially with the postseason All-Star break approaching.
Upcoming Challenges and Continued Leadership from Bickerstaff
Looking ahead, the Pistons will face additional games without Isaiah Stewart and Jalen Duren, including their upcoming match against the New York Knicks. Bickerstaff’s ability to manage the team’s rotations and maintain competitive intensity will be critical during this period. His leadership will play a key role as the team works to sustain momentum despite the absence of two of their frontcourt pillars.
J.B. on Isaiah Stewart and Jalen Duren’s suspensions and the conversation around them:
“I would’ve liked to see Stew’s number be less. But as a group we’ve accepted it. … The narrative that’s out there, that we react to everything every time is a disappointing one.” pic.twitter.com/DI5rhKKwTG
— Hunter Patterson (@HunterPatterson) February 11, 2026
staying in the dub column pic.twitter.com/eFUUWt6nIL
— Detroit Pistons (@DetroitPistons) February 12, 2026
