Injury-riddled Pistons fall in OT to defending champion Thunder

Coty M. Davis, The Detroit News on Mar 31, 2026

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Already down Cade Cunningham and Isaiah Stewart, the Detroit Pistons had a long injury report heading into Oklahoma City. Jalen Duren, Tobias Harris, and Duncan Robinson were ruled out due to knee and hip injury management, respectively.

With five players out, the Pistons were missing their top-five scorers with a combined average of 16.0 points per game. However, by playing a collective approach while staying true to their identity, the Pistons were able to overcome injuries despite a 114-110 overtime loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder on Monday night at Paycom Center.

The Pistons' efforts peaked at the 3:59 mark in the fourth quarter. Javonte Green missed two 3-point field goals, both of which resulted in offensive rebounds for Tolu Smith. Smith's second rebound allowed Marcus Sasser to find Daniss Jenkins, who hit a 3-point shot that put Detroit ahead 97-90.

But a 6-0 run sparked by Shai Gilgeous-Alexander brought the Thunder within one point at 97-96. With the score tied at 99 and just 1:03 remaining in the final period, Gilgeous-Alexander scored two field goals, giving the Thunder a 101-99 lead. However, Paul Reed responded by sinking two free throws to tie the game at 101.

An offensive foul called on Gilgeous-Alexander gave the Pistons a chance to make a game-winning shot, but Jenkins missed as time ran out.

In overtime, the Thunder started the extra period with a 4-0 run, hoping to secure their lead. However, Kevin Huerter (17 points and six rebounds) hit a 3-point field goal, bringing the Pistons within one point at 105-104 with 2:26 remaining. The Pistons trailed 108-106 with just 48.3 seconds left when Huerter fouled Shai Gilgeous-Alexander behind the arc, resulting in the reigning MVP making all three of his free throw attempts.

Gilgeous-Alexander led the Thunder with 47 points. He shot 21-of-25 from the foul line.

Reed led the Pistons with 21 points, 10 rebounds and four blocks. Green contributed with 19 points, with five made 3-point field goals. They were two of six players who scored in double figures, as Jenkins finished with 15 points and six assists.

On the defensive end, the Pistons finished the night with 12 steals and eight blocks.

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