The Detroit Pistons got off to a strong start in their matchup against the Philadelphia 76ers on Sunday, with Isaiah Stewart scoring 10 points early in the first quarter. However, as the game went on, the Pistons’ energy dissipated and fell 123-111 to the 76ers.
Why It Matters: The Pistons were aggressive on both ends of the court in the early going, with Killian Hayes effectively running the offense and the team playing solid defense. However, the 76ers caught fire, shooting 54% from the field in the first quarter, and the Pistons couldn’t match their scoring prowess. Despite Stewart finishing with 20 points and 13 rebounds and Hayes tying a career-high with 26 points and dishing out six assists, the Pistons could not keep up with Philadelphia, who had three players score at least 20 points and five players in total scoring double figures.
Detroit Pistons vs. 76ers By the Numbers
- The 76ers shot 14-for-23 (54%) from the field in the first quarter
- The Pistons shot 10-for-23 (44%) from the field in the first quarter
- Tyrese Maxey led the 76ers with 23 points
- James Harden and Montrezl Harrell scored 20 points each for the 76ers
- Harden also had 11 rebounds and 11 assists, earning his second triple-double of the season
What They’re Saying: “We were right there in the game,” Stewart said. “We just couldn’t finish it off. We just have to play for 48 minutes.”
The Pistons will be able to redeem themselves on Tuesday night as they face off against the 76ers in Philadelphia at 8 p.m.
