By Chris Morgan | Final Score 360
DETROIT | The Detroit Pistons could hardly have scripted a more dramatic beginning to the 2026–27 NBA season.
Trailing the Boston Celtics by 22 points during the third quarter, Detroit mounted a remarkable comeback to claim a 121–113 victory October 20 at Little Caesars Arena.
The turnaround was powered by a combination of defensive improvement, timely perimeter shooting and unexpected contributions from the bench.
Cade Cunningham and Jalen Duren scored 22 points apiece, while Duncan Robinson added 21. Javonte Green provided 19 points after not appearing in the first half.
A Different Team After Halftime
Boston controlled much of the opening half and extended its advantage to 72–50 early in the third quarter.
Detroit refused to let the deficit define its opening game.
The Pistons gradually reduced the margin before seizing control in the fourth quarter. Green and Robinson were especially effective from beyond the arc, providing the offensive momentum necessary to complete the comeback.
Detroit outscored Boston 76–55 in the second half.
The comeback also demonstrated the value of a roster capable of receiving meaningful contributions from players beyond its established leaders.
A Big Debut Overshadowed
Paul George delivered an impressive individual performance in his Celtics debut, scoring 38 points.
But his production was not enough to prevent Boston from surrendering its substantial advantage.
For Detroit, the victory offered an early example of how depth and persistence can change the direction of a game.
What Comes Next
The Pistons should take encouragement from their opening performance, but the difficult start also provides a reminder that consistency matters.
Relying on major second-half comebacks is not a sustainable strategy over an 82-game schedule.
Detroit’s next test comes against Miami on October 23.
If the Pistons can combine the intensity of their second-half performance with stronger starts, their opening victory could become an early reference point for the season ahead.
