Pistons record largest win in team history with 53-point blowout of Nets
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DETROIT — Jalen Duren scored 21 points and grabbed 10 rebounds, and the Detroit Pistons cruised past the Brooklyn Nets 130-77 on Sunday night, posting the most lopsided victory in the franchise’s 78-year history.
The 53-point margin eclipsed Detroit’s previous mark of 52, set in a 118-66 win at Boston on Jan. 31, 2003. Brooklyn, meanwhile, suffered its second defeat of at least 50 points this season after a 120-66 loss to New York on Jan. 21.
Duren was named an Eastern Conference All-Star reserve earlier in the day. Fellow All-Star starter Cade Cunningham added 18 points, 12 assists and four steals as the East-leading Pistons improved to 36-12 with their second straight victory.
Fast start sets the tone
Cunningham piled up 13 points, 10 assists and four steals in the first half, helping Detroit build a 67-44 advantage at the break. Rookie Ausar Thompson capped the half with a buzzer-beating shot from midcourt.
The Pistons extended the lead with a 33-18 third quarter and were ahead by as many as 55. Detroit finished a three-game trip 2-1 after beating Golden State on Friday night.
Nets struggle on both ends
Cam Thomas and Drake Powell led Brooklyn (13-35) with 12 points apiece. The Nets played without leading scorer Michael Porter Jr., who missed the game for personal reasons.
Rookie guard Egor Demin went 0-for-4 from beyond the arc, ending his NBA rookie record of at least one made three-pointer in 34 consecutive games. He had broken the mark Friday in Utah.
Detroit’s defense limited Brooklyn to 34.9% shooting and forced 20 turnovers, converting those into 32 points.
The Pistons will host the Phoenix Suns on Tuesday, while the Nets continue their road trip Wednesday against the Chicago Bulls.
Source: ESPN
