DETROIT DOMINATES: CADE CUNNINGHAM SHINES AS PISTONS DISMANTLE WIZARDS IN HEATED SHOWDOWN
DETROIT — The Detroit Pistons sent a message loud and clear on Tuesday night, dismantling the NBA-worst Washington Wizards 123-103 in a game that had more drama than a playoff rivalry. Cade Cunningham was unstoppable, racking up 27 points and 10 assists, guiding Detroit to a much-needed victory while tempers flared on the court.
Flagrant Foul Frenzy – Wizards Lose Their Cool
Washington’s frustration boiled over in the fourth quarter. Richaun Holmes delivered a nasty elbow to the face of Detroit’s Ausar Thompson while battling for a rebound, earning himself a swift ejection. Moments later, Marcus Smart followed suit, picking up a flagrant-1 for elbowing Tim Hardaway Jr. in what felt like a desperation move from the struggling Wizards.
Pistons Stay Poised, Wizards Unravel
Jalen Duren was a force inside, contributing 15 points and a massive 13 rebounds. The Pistons, who entered the night sitting sixth in the East, never trailed and kept their foot on the gas from the opening tip. Washington (13-51) had shown signs of life recently, winning three of four, but Detroit made sure to shut that down with authority.
The Feud That Ignited the Game
Tensions flared early. Wizards forward Kyshawn George shoved Cunningham, prompting a fiery response before Khris Middleton stepped in and got physical. Jordan Poole also jumped into the mix, shoving Jalen Duren as officials scrambled to separate players. It set the tone for a gritty, no-love-lost battle that only escalated as the game wore on.
Key Stat – Total Control
Detroit never looked back, holding a double-digit lead for the entire second half. Cunningham dictated the pace, Thompson shook off the flagrant hit to sink two free throws, and the Pistons made a statement: They’re not here to play nice.
Rematch Incoming!
These two squads will clash again in Detroit on Thursday, and if tonight was any indication, it’s going to be must-watch TV. Will the Wizards come back with vengeance, or will the Pistons cement their dominance?
