Unlucky dozen: Pistons lose competitive game to Nuggets as losing streak hits 12 games

DETROIT - Monday night proved to be a brief stint for Denver Nuggets head coach Mike Malone and Nikola Jokic at Little Caesars Arena. During their absence, the Detroit Pistons managed to capitalize, albeit temporarily. Ultimately, the reigning NBA champions asserted their dominance, securing a 107-103 victory. This loss extends the Pistons’ losing streak to 12 games.

Right from the start, the Pistons displayed an intensity on both ends of the floor that appeared to frustrate the Nuggets. Jokic’s frustration escalated in the first quarter, leading to him picking up two technical fouls and being ejected from the game. Malone had a similar fate, getting ejected in the first quarter after engaging with an official regarding a no-call on a potential foul against Julian Strawther.

Additionally, the Nuggets faced the challenge of playing without Jamal Murray, who was sidelined with a hamstring injury.However, the Nuggets were not the only ones dealing with roster setbacks.

Jalen Duren was once again absent for the Pistons, missing his fifth consecutive game due to a right ankle injury. Marvin Bagley III stepped into the starting lineup for the fifth time this season and played a pivotal role in the Pistons’ offensive efforts. Continuously working to get his shot off in the post, Bagley finished with 18 points and eight rebounds. Second-year guard Jaden Ivey, making his second start of the season, provided an immediate spark with 17 points and three assists, showcasing his playmaking skills.

Cade Cunningham, despite early struggles with his shot, contributed to the Pistons’ cohesive ball movement in the first half, tallying six assists. He finished the game with 27 points and nine assists. Stanley Umude and rookie Ausar Thompson also made solid contributions with 11 and eight points, respectively.

In the absence of Jokic, the Nuggets relied on familiar faces, with former Pistons guards Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Reggie Jackson combining for 41 points. Caldwell-Pope scored 20 points, while Jackson contributed 21 points and three assists. Michael Porter Jr. recorded a double-double with 14 points and 11 rebounds, and Christian Braun chipped in 15 points and six rebounds.

As both teams traded baskets down the stretch, the score was tied at 103-103 with 1:25 remaining. However, Nuggets forward Aaron Gordon’s go-ahead and-1 gave Denver a three-point lead, securing the win. The Pistons are now two losses away from tying the second-worst losing streak (14 games) in franchise history.