Pistons’ Isaiah Stewart ruled out for Game 2

Isaiah Stewart won’t play in Game 2 of the Pistons’ first-round series against the Knicks Monday, Stefan Bondy of the New York Post tweets.

Despite the fact Stewart is Jalen Duren‘s backup at center, it’s a big blow for Detroit as it tries to even the series before hosting Games 3 and 4. Stewart limped off the court during the fourth quarter in Game 1 of the series on Saturday night with a right leg injury. He underwent tests on the leg and was listed on Sunday as questionable for Game 2 due to right knee inflammation.

Stewart provides the club with a defensive edge coming off the bench. He was expected to play a key role in the series, helping to combat high-scoring big man Karl-Anthony Towns. Stewart played 19 minutes in Game 1, contributing two points, five rebounds, two blocks and an assist while using up five fouls.

Without him, Duren will have to try his best to stay out of foul trouble and coach J.B. Bickerstaff could also utilize some smaller lineups when Duren is off the court. The other alternative would be for Paul Reed to take some of Stewart’s minutes.