Sans their superstar guard, the Detroit Pistons managed to find a way to upset the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder on Monday (PHL), 120-104, at the Little Caesars Arena.
The Thunder took control in the first quarter as they grabbed an early nine-point lead, but the Pistons came roaring back in the second, scoring 46 points to OKC’s 30 to take the lead by the break.
Detroit then never looked back as the Pistons continued their onslaught to take a 16-point win.
The Pistons grabbed just their sixth win of the season after an amazing performance by Jalen Duran, who finished with 22 points, 21 rebounds, and six assists.
Duren's career-high in rebounds included nine of the Pistons' 15 offensive boards.
Career night for @JalenDuren...
— Detroit Pistons (@DetroitPistons) January 28, 2024
🔹 First 20-20 game
🔹 21 rebounds (career-high)
🔹 6 assists (career-high) pic.twitter.com/gj6B3lEWyW
Even after his career night, the 6-foot-10 center was happy to get another win for the Pistons.
“It’s cool, but honestly being able to get the win, that’s what I’m most happy about. That’s a big-time win, like I said, especially after yesterday. I’m happy about that,” Duren said during the post-game press conference.
"Honestly being able to get the win, that’s what I'm most happy about." - @JalenDuren #PistonsPlayback presented by @wingstop pic.twitter.com/hsYz1HJ2lW
— Detroit Pistons (@DetroitPistons) January 28, 2024
After the team’s lackluster 3-36 start, Detroit is now 3-4 over its last seven games, and 2-1 over the last three.
Despite the loss, OKC remains at the top of the Western Conference standings with a 32-14 record.
