Celtics Fall to Pistons: Key Takeaways from Loss

The Boston Celtics fell to the Detroit Pistons 112-105, marking their second consecutive loss after a five-game winning streak. Jaylen Brown led the Celtics with 34 points, but he struggled at the free-throw line, making only seven of 14 attempts, which proved crucial down the stretch.

Derrick White added 31 points, with 14 of those coming in the fourth quarter, but both he and Brown committed critical turnovers in the closing moments. The Celtics shot just 25.6% from three-point range, going 10-for-39 overall, with a disastrous stretch where they missed 20 of 21 attempts from beyond the arc.

Cade Cunningham shone for the Pistons, scoring 32 points and grabbing 10 rebounds, including key baskets in the final minutes to seal the victory. The Pistons' defense was notable, forcing the Celtics into six fourth-quarter turnovers and limiting their offensive rebounds significantly.

Despite some offensive brilliance from Brown and White, the Celtics' late-game execution and shooting woes raise concerns as they prepare to face the Miami Heat next. Celtics coach Joe Mazzulla acknowledged the need for better execution and shooting, emphasizing the importance of capitalizing on open looks.

With this loss, the Celtics drop to 15-11, while the Pistons improve to 21-5, asserting their position at the top of the Eastern Conference.