Pistons Outlast Thunder 124-116 Behind Cunningham, Duren

The Detroit Pistons rallied from a sluggish start to overcome the Oklahoma City Thunder 124-116 on Wednesday night. Both teams occupy the top positions in their conferences; however, the defending champion Thunder were without key players, including superstar Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.

Thunder Start Hot

Oklahoma City started the game with tremendous energy. The Thunder quickly jumped to a 34-22 advantage after the first quarter. Their ball movement was precise, and shots were successfully sinking from various locations on the court. Nevertheless, without their MVP-caliber leader on the court, it would be challenging to maintain that intensity for the entire game.

Pistons Take Control

Detroit transformed the game in the second quarter. Cade Cunningham orchestrated the offense skillfully, much like a conductor directing an orchestra. His passes smoothly zipped past defenders, perfectly finding open teammates in rhythm. The Pistons outscored the Thunder 36-18 in that period, taking a 58-52 lead into halftime.

The third quarter also belonged to the Pistons. Jalen Duren aggressively attacked the rim, delivering powerful dunks that rattled the basket. He concluded the game with 29 points and secured 15 rebounds. It appeared as if his hands were magnetic, grabbing every loose ball. Detroit expanded their lead to 94-80 as they headed into the final period.

Cunningham Commands the Court

Cade Cunningham delivered a remarkable performance. He scored 29 points while providing 13 assists. His court vision bewildered defenders, leaving them confused. Additionally, he recorded 3 steals and 3 blocks, safeguarding both ends of the court. Cunningham achieved a remarkable shooting percentage of 68.8% from the field, resembling a superhero adorned in a Pistons jersey.

Duncan Robinson contributed 16 points with his precise shooting, while Ausar Thompson added 11 points, 7 assists, and played tenacious defense with 3 steals.

Thunder Fight Without Their Stars

Oklahoma City fought valiantly, even in the absence of Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, and Ajay Mitchell. Jaylin Williams led the Thunder with 30 points and grabbed 11 rebounds. Cason Wallace contributed 23 points. Both Aaron Wiggins and Jared McCain added 20 points each, but unfortunately, it was insufficient.

With this victory, the Pistons improved their record by earning their fourth consecutive win, demonstrating that they are indeed among the NBA's elite teams.