How Cade Cunningham’s Masterful 32 Point Double Double Controlled the Tempo of the Pistons vs Celtics Game
The Detroit Pistons (21-5) solidified their status as the class of the Eastern Conference on Monday, December 15, 2025, grinding out a gritty 112-105 victory over the Boston Celtics (15-11) at TD Garden. Led by a dominant double-double from superstar Cade Cunningham and a massive second-half push from the bench unit, Detroit overcame an early 12-point deficit to secure their fourth consecutive win and avenge a frustrating loss to Boston from earlier in the season.
The immediate score and summary of the Pistons vs Celtics showdown highlighted Detroit's resilience in a "tough, muddy" environment. Boston controlled the early stages, leading 28-19 after the first quarter and holding a 12-point advantage in the second. However, the Pistons reeled them in behind a balanced attack, entering the final frame with a four-point lead. Despite a late Celtics charge that cut the lead to 104-102 with under three minutes remaining, Cunningham sealed the "great win" with several clutch jumpers to maintain Detroit's position at the top of the East.
Key stats from the contest were centered on Cade Cunningham, who outdueled Boston's stars with 32 points and 10 assists (or rebounds, per varying reports) on 11-of-21 shooting, including six three-pointers. Jaylen Brown led the short-handed Celtics still playing without Jayson Tatum with 34 points, while Derrick White added 31. A deciding factor was the three-point line; while Detroit hit 13 shots from deep, Boston struggled through a nightmare stretch where they missed 20 of 21 attempts, finishing a dismal 10-for-39 (25.6%) from beyond the arc.
The strategic factor in the Pistons vs Celtics outcome was the overwhelming impact of the Detroit bench unit, which provided 47 total points. Caris LeVert (13 points) and Javonte Green were instrumental during the fourth-quarter surge. Green, in particular, delivered the game's emotional highlight with a steal and breakaway dunk that pushed the lead to double digits. Cunningham praised the secondary unit after the game, stating, "We’re deep we’ve got starters up and down the roster. Guys who come in and do their job better than anybody in the league."
Looking ahead, the future outlook for the Detroit Pistons involves a quick turnaround as they head to Dallas to face the Mavericks on Thursday. With a 21-5 record and an 80% win rate, the Pistons are establishing themselves as a legitimate championship contender. For the Boston Celtics, the loss is their second straight, and the focus remains on finding consistency and offensive variety while they wait for their roster to return to full health.