Boston Celtics End Pistons’ Winning Streak
In a gripping matchup on Wednesday night, the Boston Celtics managed to halt the Detroit Pistons’ impressive 13-game winning streak with a narrow victory of 117-114 in the penultimate round of the 2025 NBA Cup’s group play. The match, filled with suspense, featured an astonishing 15 changes in the lead, culminating in a decisive moment when Jaylen Brown scored, drawing a foul for an and-one play that put the Celtics ahead for good.
Implications for Both Teams
Now 2-1 in Group B, the Pistons face the Orlando Magic in a crucial must-win game on Friday, which will determine who advances to the knockout stage. Had they emerged victorious against the Celtics, the Pistons would have set a franchise record for consecutive wins at 14.
However, the game took a dramatic turn in the closing seconds. With only 3.8 seconds on the clock and the Celtics leading by three points, Boston attempted to foul Cade Cunningham to limit him to two free throws. Cunningham managed to draw a foul and was awarded three shots, converting the first two but missing the vital third attempt, sealing the game for the Celtics.
This victory has significant implications for both teams moving forward. Currently, the Celtics’ record stands at 2-2, while Detroit’s Group B scenario is precarious as they prepare to encounter the top-ranked Orlando Magic, who boast a perfect record of 3-0 in this tournament.
Current Standings in the NBA Cup
As the competition heats up, here’s a look at the current standings in the NBA Cup:
Group A
- Toronto Raptors (3-0, +53)
- Cleveland Cavaliers (2-1, +34)
- Atlanta Hawks (1-2, -11)
- Washington Wizards (1-2, -44)
- Indiana Pacers (0-2, -31)
Group B
- Orlando Magic (3-0, +61)
- Detroit Pistons (2-1, +24)
- Boston Celtics (2-2, -17)
- Brooklyn Nets (1-2, -17)
- Philadelphia 76ers (0-3, -51)
Group C
- Milwaukee Bucks (2-0, +16)
- Miami Heat (2-1, +46)
- New York Knicks (1-1, -2)
- Chicago Bulls (1-2, -42)
- Charlotte Hornets (0-2, -18)
Group D
- Oklahoma City Thunder (2-0, +63)
- Phoenix Suns (2-0, +23)
- Minnesota Timberwolves (2-1, +53)
- Sacramento Kings (0-2, -45)
- Utah Jazz (0-3, -94)
Group B (West)
- Los Angeles Lakers (3-0, +36)
- Los Angeles Clippers (2-1, -9)
- Memphis Grizzlies (1-1, +9)
- Dallas Mavericks (1-2, -13)
- New Orleans Pelicans (0-3, -17)
Group D (West)
- Denver Nuggets (2-1, +26)
- San Antonio Spurs (1-1, +10)
- Portland Trail Blazers (2-1, -18)
- Golden State Warriors (1-2, -28)
- Houston Rockets (1-2, +10)
As the tournament progresses, every game becomes pivotal, heightening the drama as teams strive for a spot in the knockout stages of this competitive format.
