Jaden Ivey delivered a dramatic game-winner, sinking an off-balance jumper as time expired to lift the Detroit Pistons to a 102-100 victory over the Toronto Raptors.
The clutch shot snapped Detroit’s three-game losing streak and provided a highlight in what has been a challenging stretch for the Pistons.
Ivey, who finished with 25 points, showcased his poise under pressure, capping a tightly contested matchup that saw multiple lead changes in the closing minutes. His final play, set up during a timeout with 22.3 seconds left, was a showcase of confidence and athleticism as he drove past Ochai Agbaji and nailed the right-baseline jumper.
Late-Game Drama Defines the Night
The Raptors appeared to seize control late in the fourth quarter when RJ Barrett drained a three-pointer, giving Toronto a 98-96 edge with 1:47 remaining. Ivey responded with a driving layup to tie the game, setting up a frantic finish.
Isaiah Stewart briefly put Detroit ahead with a go-ahead dunk, but Scottie Barnes answered with a tough layup in traffic to knot the score at 100 with 22.3 seconds left. The stage was then set for Ivey’s game-winning heroics, sending the home crowd into a frenzy.
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Barnes Shines in Defeat
Scottie Barnes led all scorers with 31 points, carrying the Raptors offensively for much of the night. Barnes was particularly effective in the first half, pouring in 20 points on 8-for-16 shooting, including three three-pointers. His aggression and shot-making kept Toronto within striking distance despite a rough start from the rest of the starting lineup.
RJ Barrett added 17 points for Toronto, but inconsistency from other contributors and poor shooting from beyond the arc hindered their chances. Toronto’s starters outside Barnes combined for just eight first-half points, relying heavily on the bench to keep the game close.
Detroit’s Resilience Pays Off
Despite being without Cade Cunningham for a second straight game due to a hip injury, the Pistons found a way to persevere. Ausar Thompson made a much-anticipated return after an eight-month absence due to blood-clotting issues, receiving a warm ovation from the crowd when he checked in during the first quarter. Thompson’s presence added energy, even as he worked to regain his rhythm.
Isaiah Stewart contributed key plays on both ends, including the late dunk that briefly gave Detroit the lead. The Pistons also overcame Toronto’s dominance on the boards, a key factor in their ability to stay competitive in the final moments.
Key Turning Points
The Pistons stormed out to a 26-11 lead in the first quarter, capitalizing on Toronto’s cold shooting. However, the Raptors responded with a massive 29-9 run, taking a 40-35 lead midway through the second quarter. The teams battled to a 48-48 stalemate at halftime, setting the stage for a nail-biting second half.
In the end, Detroit’s ability to execute in crunch time proved decisive, with Ivey’s late-game heroics standing as the difference-maker.
Rebounding Woes Nearly Cost Detroit
Toronto dominated the glass, grabbing 23 offensive rebounds to Detroit’s six. The Raptors rebounded 53% of their own missed shots in the second half, creating multiple second-chance opportunities. While this gave Toronto an edge, their inability to convert key possessions late ultimately cost them.
What’s Next
Both teams return to action on Wednesday night. The Pistons head to Memphis to face the Grizzlies, while the Raptors will look to bounce back as they visit the New Orleans Pelicans. With each team aiming to refine their approach, the next games provide a chance to address lingering weaknesses and capitalize on their strengths.
