Detroit, MI — Malik Beasley poured in 26 points, Cade Cunningham added 21 points and 11 assists, and the Detroit Pistons cruised to a 117-97 victory over the Boston Celtics on Wednesday night, marking a clash between two of the NBA’s most in-form teams.
The Pistons (33-26) extended their win streak to eight games and snapped a 12-game losing streak against Boston, just two nights after breaking a 10-game drought against the Los Angeles Clippers.
Jayson Tatum led the Celtics (42-17) with 27 points, while Derrick White and Payton Pritchard chipped in 18 points apiece. Boston had been on a roll, winning six consecutive games and 10 of their last 11.
Jalen Duren contributed a double-double with 13 points and 11 rebounds for Detroit, which dominated on the boards with a 49-33 rebound advantage.
Detroit held a 90-79 lead heading into the final quarter, then opened the period with an 8-0 run, stretching their lead to 19 points.
Key Takeaways
Celtics: Boston’s long-standing dominance over Detroit had lasted since February 16, 2022. The Celtics’ win streak against the Pistons was their longest active run against any team.
Pistons: The crowd in Detroit was one of the season’s most energetic, with the loudest cheers reserved for Lions defensive star Aidan Hutchinson, who was introduced during the third quarter.
Key Moment
After a tie at 55 by halftime, the Pistons took control in the third, outscoring the Celtics 35-24 to seize a commanding lead.
Key Stat
Tatum, White, and Pritchard were red-hot in the first half, combining to hit 14 of 22 shots, including an impressive 11 of 15 from three-point range.
Up Next
Both teams will be back in action on Friday night. The Celtics will host Cleveland, while the Pistons will face off against Denver at home.
