DETROIT – In a clash of two standout NBA teams, the Detroit Pistons triumphed over the Boston Celtics with a 117-97 victory on Wednesday night. Malik Beasley led the Pistons with 26 points, complemented by Cade Cunningham’s impressive performance of 21 points and 11 assists. This game marked Detroit’s eighth consecutive win, breaking a 12-game losing streak against Boston. Just days prior, the Pistons snapped a decade-long losing streak to the Los Angeles Clippers.
The Celtics had a strong showing from Jayson Tatum, who racked up 27 points, with Derrick White and Payton Pritchard contributing 18 points each. Despite Boston’s formidable form, having won six straight games and 10 of their last 11, their efforts weren’t enough against the determined Pistons. Detroit’s Jalen Duren added to the team’s success with 13 points and 11 rebounds, as the Pistons dominated the boards with a 49-33 rebounding advantage.
Heading into the final quarter, the Pistons were ahead at 90-79. They extended their lead with an initial 8-point surge in the fourth quarter, establishing a commanding 19-point lead.
Key Notes:
Celtics: Boston’s latest loss halted their ongoing winning streak against Detroit, which dated back to February 16, 2022, marking their longest active streak against a single opponent.
Pistons: The game attracted one of the season’s largest and most enthusiastic crowds. A significant moment arose when Aidan Hutchinson, the Lions’ star defensive end, was introduced during the third quarter, eliciting the loudest cheers of the night.
Critical Moment: With the game tied at 55 at halftime, the Pistons seized control by outscoring the Celtics 35-24 in the third quarter.
Noteworthy Statistics: Tatum, White, and Pritchard collectively shot 14 of 22 from the floor in the first half, including an impressive 11 of 15 on 3-pointers.
Upcoming Games: Both teams are set to play again on Friday night. The Celtics will take on the Cleveland Cavaliers, while the Pistons will face the Denver Nuggets.
