The Detroit Pistons rolled to a 110-94 victory over the Brooklyn Nets at Barclays Center on October 30, improving their record to 4-1. Cade Cunningham led the scoring with 30 points, while Paul Reed continued his strong play in the absence of injured center Jalen Duren. The win marks the Pistons' second in a row and gives them a strong start in East Group A of the NBA Cup.
The Pistons entered the game with a lengthy injury report, but managed the absences effectively. Starting center Jalen Duren was ruled out as he continues to recover from a strained right hamstring suffered on October 23 against the Miami Heat. ESPN reports he is out for at least two weeks and will be re-evaluated in early November.
Guard Isaiah Joe was also sidelined with a right hip contusion. Two-way players Ugonna Onyenso, Elijah Harkless, and Isaac Jones were all available for the contest. In Duren's place, Paul Reed has stepped up, averaging 15.3 points, 7.0 rebounds, 1.7 assists, 1.7 steals, and 1.3 blocks over his last three games prior to this win.
Detroit's offense was efficient and their defense stifled a struggling Nets team. Cade Cunningham's 30-point outing set the tone, but it was a balanced team effort. The Pistons have now won seven of their last ten meetings with Brooklyn, a streak dating back to December 2023.
This victory fits into a pattern of strong early-season form. Their recent results show a 4-1 record in their last five games (WWLWW), with wins over the Charlotte Hornets (97-89 on Oct. 28), Philadelphia 76ers (106-93 on Oct. 25), and Miami Heat (128-111 on Oct. 23). Their lone loss in that stretch came against the New York Knicks (111-97 on Oct. 27).
The Pistons will look to keep their momentum going with a quick rematch against the Charlotte Hornets. That game is scheduled for November 2 on the road. Securing another win would stays atop the competitive East Group A, which also features the Toronto Raptors, Milwaukee Bucks, and Orlando Magic.
With key players like Kawhi Leonard and Paolo Banchero out for other group rivals, Detroit's depth and current form make them a favorite to advance. Paul Reed's emergence as a reliable interior presence is a major positive while Jalen Duren heals. The team's ability to win on the road, as shown in Brooklyn, will be important for their playoff aspirations this season. Fans can plan ahead by viewing the full schedule on our schedule page.
