The Detroit Pistons produced a remarkable second-half comeback to defeat the Boston Celtics 121-113 in their 2026-27 NBA season opener on Tuesday, overcoming a 22-point deficit despite a sensational debut performance from Paul George.
Playing at home, Detroit appeared headed for defeat after trailing 72-50 midway through the third quarter. However, a stunning fourth-quarter turnaround helped the Pistons secure their first victory of the campaign.
Jalen Duren led Detroit with 22 points and nine rebounds, while Cade Cunningham contributed 22 points and eight assists. Duncan Robinson added 21 points, with Javonte Green providing a crucial 19 off the bench.
Boston maintained control for much of the contest and still held a 99-89 advantage with 8:19 remaining. But the Pistons responded with an extraordinary 23-0 scoring run over five minutes to take a 112-99 lead.
According to the NBA, Detroit’s comeback was the largest from a 22-point deficit on an opening day since the 1997-98 season.
“When we outwork you, we’re going to be hard to beat,” Pistons coach J.B. Bickerstaff said.
Green played a decisive role after entering the game midway through the third quarter. Having remained on the bench throughout the first half, he injected energy into Detroit’s attack, hitting five three-pointers.
Robinson was equally influential, scoring 15 points in the final quarter as Boston struggled to contain Detroit’s outside shooting.
Bickerstaff praised Green’s readiness and impact.
“We have a high-level trust in everybody on our roster,” he said, highlighting the guard’s shooting, defensive contributions and energy.
For Boston, George delivered an outstanding individual performance in his first appearance since joining the franchise.
The nine-time All-Star finished with a game-high 38 points, shooting 12-for-21 from the field and converting seven three-pointers.
His performance surpassed Kristaps Porziņģis’ previous Celtics debut scoring record of 30 points, set in 2023.
However, Jayson Tatum endured a difficult shooting night, managing just 13 points on 6-for-23 shooting, including seven missed three-point attempts.
Tatum struggled particularly after halftime, scoring only two points, although he contributed a game-high 11 assists.
Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla defended his star player’s decision-making.
“I just want him to continue to make the right play,” Mazzulla said, encouraging Tatum to remain aggressive despite his shooting struggles.
Detroit’s Ausar Thompson also earned praise for his defensive effort against Tatum.
The dramatic victory gives the Pistons an early confidence boost as both teams begin their pursuit of Eastern Conference supremacy.
