Pistons establish franchise milestone with 53-point victory over Nets
DETROIT — Jalen Duren recorded 21 points and 10 rebounds after being named an Eastern Conference reserve for the All-Star Game on Sunday night, leading the Detroit Pistons to a commanding 130-77 victory over the Brooklyn Nets, marking the most significant win in franchise history.
The 53-point differential surpassed the previous record of 52 established during a 118-66 win against Boston on January 31, 2003. The Nets experienced a 54-point defeat, losing 120-66 to New York on January 21.
Cade Cunningham, the Pistons’ standout who was previously chosen as an East All-Star starter, contributed 18 points, 12 assists, and four steals. The Pistons, who are at the top of the Eastern Conference, improved their record to 36-12 with this being their second consecutive win. They had defeated Golden State on Friday night, concluding a three-game road trip with a 2-1 record.
Cunningham tallied 13 points, 10 assists, and four steals in the first half as the Pistons surged to a 67-44 advantage. Ausar Thompson made a half-court shot just before halftime.
Detroit outscored Brooklyn 33-18 in the third quarter, extending the lead to 100-62. The Pistons’ largest advantage reached 55 points.
Cam Thomas and Drake Powell each scored 12 points for Brooklyn. The Nets now hold a record of 13-35.
Egor Demin went 0 for 4 from beyond the arc, ending his NBA rookie streak of at least one 3-pointer in 34 consecutive games. He set the record on Friday night in Utah.
Nets leading scorer Michael Porter Jr. was absent due to personal reasons.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
