Pistons Swarm Nets to Start NBA Cup with Convincing Victory
Cade Cunningham scored 34 points, helping the Detroit Pistons extend their winning streak to five games. Detroit maintained their impressive start to the 2025-26 season by defeating the Brooklyn Nets 122-104 on the road, improving to 7-2 overall. This marks the franchise’s best season start since 2008.
Early Struggles and Injury
The Pistons fell behind early as Brooklyn’s Noah Clowney hit 4 of 5 three-pointers, pushing the Nets to a 19-9 lead. An early flagrant foul was called on Pistons’ Isaiah Stewart, who later suffered a left ankle sprain that sidelined him for most of the game. Despite these setbacks, Detroit quickly found their rhythm.
Pistons Take Control
Detroit focused on dominating the paint with star guard Cade Cunningham orchestrating the attack. Jalen Duren contributed 18 first-half points, supported by Cunningham’s playmaking with five assists in the opening half. The Pistons scored 40 points in the paint by halftime, asserting control of the game.
Cunningham's Impact Throughout the Game
Unlike previous games where Cunningham was most effective in the fourth quarter, he spread his scoring evenly this time, putting up 14 points in the first half and 20 in the second. His performance was crucial to the Pistons' win.
"Cade Cunningham dropped 34 points to extend Detroit's winning streak to five games."
"The Pistons totaled 40 points in the paint in the opening half of play and Cunningham was integral in setting up another big night from Duren as he assisted on five of his six early makes."
Detroit’s strong and balanced effort highlights their potential as a top contender this season.
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