Pistons Win in Denver Despite Thrilling Finish

The Detroit Pistons started their three-game Western Conference road trip with a hard-fought victory over the Denver Nuggets, 109-107, at Ball Arena. Despite an 18-point lead in the second quarter, the Pistons had to battle until the final seconds to secure the win.

Cade Cunningham and Tobias Harris Carry the Pistons

Cade Cunningham (22 points, 11 assists) and Tobias Harris (22 points, 8 rebounds) were the architects of this victory. Harris hit the decisive free throws in the final moments, while Cunningham orchestrated his team’s offense brilliantly. The Pistons took control for good in the first minute of the opening quarter with a Cunningham basket.

Detroit’s defense shined early, limiting Denver to 31.6% shooting in the first quarter to lead 31-18. However, the Pistons struggled mightily from 3-point range, making only 2 of 21 attempts through the middle of the third quarter.

Suspenseful Finish with Jamal Murray

The ending was particularly dramatic. With Detroit leading by three points in the final minute, Jamal Murray had two chances to tie the game from the free-throw line. With 3.5 seconds remaining, after being fouled on a 3-point attempt by Javonte Green, Murray missed his first free throw but made the next two, bringing Denver within one point.

Harris then hit two crucial free throws with 2 seconds on the clock to give the Pistons a three-point lead (109-106). But Green fouled Murray again on a 3-point attempt with 0.7 seconds left. This time, Murray converted only the first of his three free throws, sealing the Nuggets’ defeat.

Jamal Murray missed 2 CLUTCH FTs 😭 pic.twitter.com/nvkA8xRs4t

— Logion Noops (@LogionNoops) January 28, 2026

Murray, who had averaged over 30 points in his previous three games against Detroit, finished with 24 points and 10 assists but shot 7/18 from the field. The Nuggets were without Nikola Jokic (left knee bone bruise), Aaron Gordon, Cameron Johnson and Christian Braun, all injured.

This victory improves the Pistons’ record to 34 wins and 11 losses, solidifying their first place in the Eastern Conference with a 6-game lead over Boston. Detroit will continue their road trip in Phoenix on Thursday against the Suns.

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