Detroit Pistons: Blake Griffin and 5 other surprising players so far

MIAMI, FLORIDA - JANUARY 18: Blake Griffin #23 of the Detroit Pistons reacts against the Miami Heat during the third quarter at American Airlines Arena on January 18, 2021 in Miami, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) /

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Detroit Pistons, Blake Griffin (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images) /

4. Isaiah Stewart

It is not hyperbolic to say that Isaiah Stewart is quickly becoming the favorite player of Pistons fans. It was easy to mock Troy Weaver for taking a pure (undersized) center with the 16th overall pick in the draft. In fact, many crushed the selection. Seeing him be just okay already would have been a win. Stewart has been much more than that.

Stewart is a ball of energy, specifically on the offensive glass. He is already in the top 20 offensive rebounders in the league overall and moves into the top 10 when adjusted for per 36 minutes. He has great hands and great footwork. He is non-stop hustle, which is everything people in Detroit love about their athletes.

The expectations for Isaiah Stewart were low but he has blown them out of the water. He is so clearly open and willing to learn and if he can figure out what to do with his overflowing athleticism he will make those draft skeptics look silly. He is the embodiment of the rookie culture that Weaver wanted to set and he has already almost completely forced Jahlil Okafor out of the rotation. He is also unafraid of getting under the skin of every, including Giannis Antetokounmpo. Stewart is so much fun.

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