The Detroit Pistons continue to inch closer to a dubious record after falling 129-102 to the Boston Celtics. With only a dozen games left in the regular season, the Pistons are on the verge of setting a new franchise low for fewest wins.
The previous record was established in the 1979-80 season when the Pistons finished with a dismal 16-66 record. This year’s team currently sits at a disappointing 12-58 and could potentially rewrite history by the end of the 2023-24 season. Detroit now shares the worst record in the NBA with the Washington Wizards.
The road ahead for the Pistons is rough, with six of their final 12 games against playoff-bound teams, and nine of those games on the road. This tough schedule, combined with a string of injuries, has put the record low within reach for Detroit.
Heading into the game against Boston, the Pistons had six players listed on the injury report. Despite the setbacks, head coach Monty Williams has shuffled his starting lineup 29 different times to compensate for the absences.
The Celtics capitalized on the Pistons’ lack of depth and continuity, forcing 19 turnovers and knocking down 16-45 triples. Despite a valiant effort in the opening quarter, Detroit couldn’t maintain the momentum against Boston.
Led by Jaylen Brown’s 33 points, the Celtics dominated offensively in the absence of key players like Jayson Tatum and Jrue Holiday. Cade Cunningham and Jaden Ivey showed promise for the Pistons, scoring 15 and 16 points, respectively.
In the postgame press conference, Williams emphasized the importance of not using injuries as an excuse for the team’s struggles. He praised his players for their efforts and resilience, despite facing a tough opponent in Boston.
As the Pistons continue to battle injuries and a grueling schedule, their resilience and determination will be put to the test as they look to avoid setting a new franchise low.
