WASHINGTON — The Detroit Pistons, facing a challenging season marked by historic losses, including an NBA record-tying 28-game skid, displayed resilience and determination in their 129-117 victory over the Washington Wizards on Monday. Alec Burks, delivering a stellar performance, matched his career-high with 34 points, steering Detroit to only their fourth win this season.
Pistons coach Monty Williams praised the team’s unwavering spirit, emphasizing the players’ commitment and desire to support each other despite the difficult season. This victory was a testament to their collective effort and enthusiasm.
Jalen Duren contributed significantly with 20 points and 19 rebounds, while Jaden Ivey added 24 points, seven rebounds, and six assists. Burks, shooting an impressive 8 of 12 from the 3-point range, was a key factor in Detroit’s nearly 56% shooting from the field. Teammate Isiah Stewart lauded Burks’ scoring ability and veteran presence on the court, highlighting his range and scoring consistency.
This scoring outburst by Burks, who averages 11.5 points per game this season, matched his previous career highs, achieved once with Utah in 2014 and again with New York in 2021.
Tyus Jones led the Wizards with 22 points, seven assists, and six rebounds. Supporting efforts came from Jordan Poole and Deni Advija, scoring 16 and 12 points, respectively. Stewart and Ausar Thompson also contributed with 16 and 14 points for Detroit.
The game followed a notable trade between the two teams, involving Marvin Bagley III, Isaiah Livers, Danilo Gallinari, Mike Muscala, and the exchange of future draft picks.
Detroit established control in the late stages of the game, with a 9-0 run in the third quarter giving them a 92-87 lead. They extended this advantage to 15 points in the fourth quarter, in a matchup between two of the Eastern Conference’s struggling teams.
Washington’s Landry Shamet, who scored 11 points, pointed to lapses in attention to detail and physicality as contributing factors to the loss. Kyle Kuzma, scoring 21 points and eight rebounds for the Wizards, was ejected in the final minutes for arguing with an official, underlining the frustrations for Washington.
The Pistons now look forward to hosting Minnesota on Wednesday, hoping to build on this victory. Meanwhile, the Wizards face a challenging visit to New York on Thursday.
