Detroit — The Detroit Pistons faced a tough challenge with a significant absence of key players, which ultimately led to their downfall in a closely contested game against the Los Angeles Clippers. Missing four of their top six scorers, the Pistons held a promising 14-point lead before succumbing to a 98-92 defeat at Little Caesars Arena on Saturday night.
Duncan Robinson was a standout early on, contributing 20 points in the first half, complemented by a strong showing from Ron Holland, who added 16 points and eight rebounds off the bench. The Pistons, however, struggled with their shooting, finishing the game at just 37% from the field and committing 16 turnovers in the second half, which proved costly in maintaining their lead.
Playing without Cade Cunningham, Jalen Duren, Tobias Harris, and Isaiah Stewart, the Pistons still managed to execute a commendable defensive effort, racking up 18 steals and 13 blocks, forcing a total of 21 turnovers from the Clippers. The team started strong defensively, allowing just 26% shooting from the field for Los Angeles and building an early 16-3 advantage.
Despite their defensive prowess, the Pistons entered a rough stretch in the latter part of the game. The Clippers, led by Kawhi Leonard and a determined Ivica Zubac, rallied with a 10-0 run in the second half. Even with late game heroics from Holland, who provided an electrifying transition windmill dunk, the Pistons faltered in the final moments, committing three turnovers within a minute that ultimately sealed their fate.
As the Pistons look ahead, they have a chance to regroup during their break before facing the Phoenix Suns on Thursday at Little Caesars Arena. With a focus on their technical play and maintaining their defensive identity, there is optimism that a healthier roster will help them return to form.