DETROIT — The Detroit Pistons showcased their resilience on national television Friday night, defeating the Philadelphia 76ers by a score of 125-112 at Little Caesars Arena, even without their All-Star guard Cade Cunningham, who was sidelined due to an ankle sprain.
Malik Beasley stepped up to lead the Pistons, delivering his best performance as he scored a career-high 36 points, contributing significantly to Detroit's commanding victory. The Pistons, who entered the match off two consecutive heartbreaking losses, started strong and maintained their momentum throughout the game.
From the opening tip, the Pistons demonstrated their offensive prowess. They quickly gained the upper hand, leading 15-0, and took control of the first quarter, posting 42 points to the 76ers' 20. Beasley was at the center of the offensive explosion, making three 3-pointers within the first quarter alone. By halftime, Detroit had established a staggering 78-49 lead, matching their highest point total for any first half since 1982.
Tobias Harris, facing his former team, added 22 points and nine rebounds, complementing Beasley's scoring. Ausar Thompson also contributed with 14 points, eight rebounds, and six assists, rounding out the Pistons' balanced attack. Jalen Duren managed to finish with 13 points, 13 rebounds, and seven assists, showcasing his versatile skill set.
Despite the Pistons' overwhelming first-half dominance, the 76ers attempted to claw their way back. Joel Embiid found his footing after struggling early, scoring 20 of his eventual 23 points in the third quarter. The 76ers managed to cut the lead to 14 points at one point, prompted by Tyrese Maxey's 27 points and Embiid's increased offensive production.
Head coach J.B. Bickerstaff's strategy was pivotal as well. With the absence of both Cunningham and Jaden Ivey—who is recovering from a broken fibula—the team operated without a designated point guard, instead opting for a ball-handling committee approach, which effectively maintained offensive fluidity and control.
“Give our front office credit for being able to address some things, but at the same time, for the most part, being able to keep the group intact,” Bickerstaff noted, highlighting the importance of team cohesion. “Dennis’ ability to handle the ball. Play the pick and roll. Get to the paint. Create for himself. Create for others. And then both of those guys are willing to defend.”
After the Sixers got to within 11 points late in the game, Beasley swiftly quelled their momentum with back-to-back 3-pointers, effectively sealing the victory.
This win not only brought the Pistons to .500 at 26-26 and solidified their position within the playoff picture but also marked a significant moment for Beasley, who stepped up when the team needed him most. Previously, his career-high was 35 points, achieved against the Houston Rockets back on February 1, 2019.
The Pistons now sit seventh in the Eastern Conference, solidifying their push for the playoff spots as they approach the pivotal trade deadline. The addition of Dennis Schröder and Lindy Waters III from the recent trade saw them on the bench, currently inactive pending their physicals and paperwork completion, but their expected arrival and integration will provide the Pistons with additional depth moving forward.
Looking forward, the Pistons continue their six-game homestand on Sunday against the Charlotte Hornets (13-36), providing them the opportunity to build on this momentum and capitalize on their recent successes.
The matchup with the Hornets promises to be another chance for Detroit to stride firmly toward playoff contention, with both Cunningham and Ivey supporting the team from the sidelines as they recover.
With their combination of strong performances and strategic acquisitions, the Pistons are positioning themselves as contenders, and they hope to maintain this positive upwards trend as the season progresses.