Celtics blow 22-point lead, lose opener to Pistons
Detroit Pistons Edge Boston Celtics 121‑113 in Season‑Opening Showdown
DETROIT – The 2026‑27 NBA season opened with a thrilling clash at Little Caesars Arena, as the Detroit Pistons outscored the Boston Celtics 121‑113 in a game that showcased both veteran talent and emerging stars.
Key performances
The game’s headline was Paul George, Detroit’s new teammate, who poured in 38 points for the Celtics – the most by any Boston player in his debut for the team. George’s 38‑point effort came after Boston traded him from Philadelphia in exchange for 2024 Finals MVP Jaylen Brown, and the 17‑year‑old veteran made a strong statement in his first game with the Celtics.
Detroit’s offensive fireworks were led by Jalen Duren, who finished with 22 points and nine rebounds, and Duncan Robinson, who also had 21 points and made five of nine three‑point attempts. Ausar Thompson added 11 points and 11 rebounds, while Cade Cunningham contributed 22 points and eight assists. Javonte Green, who had sat out the first half, returned for the second half and scored 19 points, including a go‑ahead three‑pointer that helped the Pistons close the gap.
On the Celtics side, Jayson Tatum – returning to a full season after an Achilles injury in May 2025 – managed just 13 points on 6‑17 shooting and added 11 assists, but struggled with defensive intensity. Boston’s Derrick White and Payton Pritchard each scored 17 points.
Game flow
Boston opened the game aggressively, building a 72‑50 lead early in the third quarter after George hit three consecutive threes in under a minute. The Celtics’ early advantage seemed to set the tone, but Detroit fought back. After a 13‑point deficit with 3:33 left in the third quarter, Green’s third‑quarter performance helped cut the lead to six points.
The Pistons then surged in the fourth quarter. Green’s go‑ahead three, Duren’s three‑point play, and Robinson’s clutch shot pushed Detroit ahead 107‑99 with just over five minutes remaining. Detroit maintained the momentum to finish the game 121‑113.
Context and next matchups
George’s debut season in Boston marks his first full season in a new franchise after a 17‑year NBA career. Tatum’s limited play is expected to improve as he fully recovers from his Achilles tear. Detroit’s comeback victory sets a confident tone as they head into a road game against Miami, while Boston will host the New York Knicks on Friday.
The season opener demonstrated that the Pistons possess the firepower to challenge the league’s elite, and Boston’s resilience will be tested in the coming weeks as both teams adjust and grow.
