The Detroit Pistons have emerged as one of the NBA’s most inspiring stories this season. Approaching the halfway mark, they boast a 21-19 record, a remarkable turnaround from being the league’s worst team last season with just 14 wins. As they prepare to host the Indiana Pacers on Thursday night, Detroit looks to maintain its momentum, having won 10 of its last 12 games.
Their latest triumph came against the New York Knicks in Madison Square Garden on Monday. The Pistons secured a 124-119 victory, their second win over the Knicks this season. Detroit showed poise in a tight second half, with Malik Beasley delivering clutch 3-pointers in the final 39 seconds. Both shots stemmed from Cade Cunningham drawing defensive attention and dishing to Tim Hardaway Jr., who then assisted Beasley.
“That trust—Cade trusting Tim, and Tim trusting Malik—that’s the heartbeat of great teams,” Pistons coach J.B. Bickerstaff said. “It’s about making the right play rather than trying to be the hero. It’s a lesson learned, and we’re becoming a tough team to beat every night.”
Cunningham continued his All-Star-worthy campaign, scoring 36 points. It marked his fourth game in six outings with at least 32 points, further highlighting his pivotal role in Detroit’s resurgence.
The Pacers, meanwhile, are coming off a split series with the Eastern Conference-leading Cleveland Cavaliers. Indiana snapped Cleveland’s 12-game winning streak on Sunday with a 108-93 road victory but fell 127-117 in Tuesday’s rematch. That loss ended Indiana’s own six-game winning streak.
Indiana played without Tyrese Haliburton, sidelined with a mild groin strain. Haliburton, who averages 18.1 points and 8.8 assists per game, had started the Pacers’ first 40 contests this season.
“It’s clear we need Tyrese back healthy,” said coach Rick Carlisle. “He’s one of the best players in the world, and his absence was felt.”
Forward Pascal Siakam emphasized the need for the team to step up in Haliburton’s absence. “We all have to raise our game. Ty brings energy and leadership, and we need to figure out how to play without him for now.”
Indiana will also be without Bennedict Mathurin, suspended for one game after receiving three technical fouls and an ejection in Tuesday’s loss. Mathurin’s absence further complicates matters for the Pacers as they prepare to face a surging Detroit team.
The Pistons and Pacers have tied the season series at 1-1. Indiana won the opener 115-109 in October, outscoring Detroit 66-51 in the second half. Detroit responded in the second meeting on November 29 with a commanding 130-106 victory, shooting 57.8 percent from the field.
As the Pistons continue their climb up the standings and the Pacers look to adapt without key players, Thursday’s matchup promises to be an intriguing battle.
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