UPDATE: The Detroit Pistons have just secured a thrilling 104-103 victory over the Boston Celtics, extending their lead in the Eastern Conference to a season-high 5.5 games at Little Caesars Arena. This urgent win comes as both teams featured first-time All-Star starters: Cade Cunningham and Jaylen Brown.
With only seconds remaining, Brown had a chance to seal the game for the Celtics, but his potential game-winning jumper clanged off the back rim. Despite leading all scorers with 32 points and grabbing 11 rebounds, Brown’s effort fell short. Veteran Tobias Harris, who contributed 25 points, played a crucial role in defending the final shot.
Cunningham, still recovering from a wrist injury, struggled offensively, shooting only 4 of 17 for 16 points, but he dished out 14 assists without committing any turnovers. His performance solidified his standing as the top vote-getter in the Eastern Conference.
“More than anything, you want respect from your peers,” Cunningham stated. “It just is a testament to the amount of success we’ve had as a team.”
The Pistons faced a formidable challenge from the Celtics, who previously defeated them on November 26, ending Detroit’s franchise-record 13-game winning streak. This game showcased the stark contrast in playing styles, with the Celtics relying heavily on three-point shooting.
Detroit’s defense was key, limiting Boston to just 13 of 41 from beyond the arc while hitting 11 threes themselves. Duncan Robinson led the Pistons with five three-pointers, a notable accomplishment for a team that ranks in the bottom five for attempts and makes.
Pistons head coach J.B. Bickerstaff praised the intensity of both teams: “It tests your mettle a little bit, and it’s how you sharpen your tools,” he said, emphasizing the valuable experience gained against a top-tier opponent.
Detroit’s defensive efficiency has surged recently, ranking second in the league behind Oklahoma City, holding opponents to an impressive 99.5 points per 100 possessions this month. They stifled the Celtics in the fourth quarter, allowing only 21 points, which proved decisive.
“With the experience Cade [Cunningham] has gotten, we all trust him to make the big play,” Harris added. “Those are plays that give teammates and the group life.”
Despite the loss, Celtics star Jayson Tatum was seen participating in one-on-one workouts earlier in the day, fueling speculation about his recovery timeline from Achilles surgery. Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla downplayed the significance of Tatum’s workout, saying only, “I failed medical school” when asked about Tatum’s status.
Cunningham commended Brown’s ability to perform under pressure, especially with Tatum sidelined: “To be on top of someone’s scouting report offensively is impressive,” he noted. “It’s the competition I love.” The victory not only solidifies the Pistons’ lead but also sets the stage for an exciting continuation of the season.
As the NBA season progresses, fans will be eagerly watching how both teams adapt and respond in their upcoming games. The Pistons are now firmly established as a force in the East, while the Celtics will seek to rebound and regain their footing.
