DETROIT — In a thrilling game on Thursday night, Alex Sarr emerged as the key player for the Washington Wizards, notching the decisive score with just 53 seconds left on the clock. His subsequent block and an impressive total of 19 points secured a 129-125 victory over the Detroit Pistons.
Justin Champagnie contributed significantly to the Wizards’ success, recording 17 points and pulling down nine rebounds. Meanwhile, Kyshawn George, who struggled for the first three quarters, found his rhythm in the fourth by sinking three critical 3-pointers, ultimately adding up to nine points.
The Pistons, who were seeking to extend their winning streak to three games, witnessed a remarkable performance from Cade Cunningham. He scored an impressive 38 points and grabbed 10 rebounds. Additionally, Jalen Duren made a strong impact with 18 points and 14 rebounds.
With just over a minute left, Duren’s follow-up shot gave the Pistons a narrow 125-124 lead. However, Sarr responded with a powerful dunk for Washington, reclaiming a 126-125 advantage. Sarr then played a pivotal defensive role by blocking Cunningham’s dunk attempt.
The game intensified when Tim Hardaway Jr. missed a 3-pointer that could have tied the game with only 8.7 seconds remaining. Finally, Marcus Smart sealed the Wizards’ victory with crucial free throws.
Takeaways from the match include the Wizards’ improved performance following a day’s rest in Detroit after their 123-103 loss to the Pistons just two days earlier.
On the injury front, the Pistons’ shooting guard Jaden Ivey provided an update on his fractured tibia. The injury, sustained on January 1st against the Orlando Magic, means Ivey is expected to miss the remainder of the regular season. However, he remains hopeful to return in time for his playoff debut.
Key statistics from the game revealed the Wizards’ fourth-quarter shooting precision with a 61% success rate from the floor, including a 50% success from beyond the arc. In contrast, the Pistons struggled with a 35% shooting rate, failing to score any of their eight 3-point attempts.
The crucial turning point occurred late in the second quarter when the Wizards found themselves trailing. A spirited 27-10 run allowed them to secure a 75-62 lead at the start of the third quarter, setting the stage for their eventual victory.
Looking ahead, both teams are scheduled to play again on Saturday. The Wizards will continue their road trip in Denver, while the Pistons are set to host Oklahoma City.
