On the Pistons side, Simone Fontecchio led the scoring effort with 24 points, followed by Jalen Duren, who recorded a double-double with 15 points and 17 rebounds. Jaden Ivey had 14 points and nine assists, while Evan Fournier added 12 points to the Pistons’ total. Cade Cunninghamdespite a tough shooting night, managed to contribute 11 points and nine assists.
Miami came out of a closely contested first half with a narrow 56-54 lead over Detroit. Adebayo’s dominant presence in the paint, coupled with Miami’s struggles beyond the arc, kept the game close as neither team was able to take a significant lead. Fontecchio led the Pistons’ first-half efforts with 16 points, while Duren provided a strong interior presence with 11 points and 10 rebounds.
The Heat took control of the game in the third quarter, fueled by a 15-0 run that allowed them to extend their lead to double digits. Rozier and Robinson played pivotal roles during that decisive stretch, combining for 15 straight points to give Miami a sizable lead heading into the final quarter.
In the fourth quarter, Miami continued to assert its dominance, with Butler and Martin leading the charge to maintain their lead and secure the victory. Thomas Bryant’s contributions off the bench also proved crucial, as his impact on both ends of the court helped Miami maintain control down the stretch.
With the win, the Heat look to gain some momentum as they prepare to face the Pistons again in Detroit on Sunday afternoon, aiming to further solidify their position in the playoff race.
(Contributions from Reuters)
