DETROIT — Cade Cunningham found his rhythm, scoring nine of his 15 points during the crucial fourth quarter, helping the Detroit Pistons secure a 115-94 victory against the Brooklyn Nets on Saturday night.
Cunningham, who struggled with a season-low performance of 11 points in a 134-119 defeat to Denver on Friday, managed just six points in the first three quarters against Brooklyn. However, he came alive in the final quarter with a key three-pointer and two three-point plays.
Assisting in the effort, Tobias Harris, Malik Beasley, and Jalen Duren each contributed 18 points for Detroit, who had their eight-game winning streak halted by the Nuggets earlier. Meanwhile, Tyrese Martin led the Nets by coming off the bench to score 23 points as Brooklyn endured their fourth consecutive loss.
The Nets managed to narrow the Pistons’ lead to just six points at the fourth quarter’s onset. However, Cunningham spearheaded a decisive 16-6 run with six points, extending Detroit’s advantage to 95-81 midway through the last quarter.
Significant Observations: The game also marked a return of sorts for PG Killian Hayes. Once a Pistons player for four years, he briefly joined the Nets, first being waived post his original team’s time in February 2024 and then signing a short-term contract last week. On the court, however, Hayes was met with loud boos, attributed perhaps to the Pistons’ overall 67-219 (.234) record during his tenure.
The Pistons showed tenacity after a shaky start against Denver, shooting 68.2% in the first quarter against Brooklyn and outscoring them 39-22. This included a blistering 77.8% success rate in three-point shots. However, despite leading 68-43 at halftime, the Pistons faltered in the third quarter. With just 26.3% shooting and significant turnover struggles, their performance waned momentarily.
Statistically, the Nets missed a golden opportunity to capitalize as they failed 14 of their initial 16 attempts in the fourth quarter, missing all six from deep range. Looking ahead, the Pistons are scheduled to face Utah on Monday night, while the Nets will travel to San Antonio on Tuesday.
