DETROIT — The Detroit Pistons have faced numerous challenges during the first half of the season, grappling with a series of injuries that have complicated their efforts on the court. As they welcomed back three key starters, Cade Cunningham, Tobias Harris, and Jalen Duren, along with Isaiah Stewart, who returned after a brief illness, the team aimed to navigate a challenging game against the Phoenix Suns.
Despite the infusion of talent, the Pistons confronted a rough start, trailing by as much as 16 points and committing 11 turnovers in the first half. Cunningham, who struggled with his shooting, finished with a 3-of-16 performance, marking his least efficient outing since January 2024. Meanwhile, Harris connected on crucial shots towards the end of the game, and Duren delivered a standout performance with 16 points and 18 rebounds.
Head Coach J.B. Bickerstaff acknowledged the difficulty of reintegrating multiple players into the lineup simultaneously. “It was a matter of us just finding the rhythm and finding the space and just making the easy play,” he said. Despite a challenging first half, Bickerstaff commended his players for their resilience and ability to support one another.
As the third quarter unfolded, the Pistons recognized the need to elevate their game, as highlighted by Cunningham’s assessment of the first half as “nasty.” The combined total of 31 turnovers and 40 personal fouls underscored the game’s intensity and chaotic nature. However, the Pistons’ defensive effort shone through in the fourth quarter, where they held the Suns to just 15 points, showcasing their strength in late-game situations.
The Pistons have proven to be defensively formidable, ranking first in the NBA for fourth-quarter defense, allowing an average of 22.3 points since the start of 2026. Even with shooting struggles and missed free throws, their robust defense paved the way for a crucial victory.
Jaden Ivey also received recognition for his impactful contributions off the bench. After facing injuries that limited his minutes, Ivey thrived in his role, scoring 16 points on 75% shooting. “Just doing my job, doing my role,” Ivey said, reflecting on his adjustment to a different playing time than he was accustomed to.
While the odds were against them, including significant player returns and facing a Suns team with a solid record, the Pistons managed to secure their 29th victory of the season. This resilience not only underscores their potential but also highlights their determination to maintain their position at the top of the Eastern Conference, proving that even on challenging nights, they can still find a way to triumph.