The closing pre-season matchup of the 2026-27 NBA calendar unfolded on Friday in Detroit, delivering a fireworks display that saw both squads combine for more than 250 points. The Detroit Pistons edged the Toronto Raptors 129-125, sealing a 3-1 preseason record for the home team while the visitors slipped to 2-3.
Raptors’ standout performers despite a shortened rotation
Toronto’s most prolific scorer was forward Trayce Jackson-Davis who poured in 23 points, converting an efficient 15 free-throw attempts. In addition to his scoring, Jackson-Davis contributed three rebounds and a steal, showcasing a well-rounded effort. Free throws proved vital, as his precision helped keep the Raptors within striking distance throughout the contest.
Supporting the effort, guard Nimari Burnett added 17 points and grabbed five boards, while rookie Allen Gaves posted a double-digit tally with nine points and an impressive eight rebounds. Notably, the Raptors chose not to deploy any of their established rotation stars, opting instead to evaluate depth and youthful potential ahead of the regular season.
Pistons display depth, spread minutes across 18 players
Detroit’s victory was anchored by a balanced attack. Cade Cunningham led the Pistons with 18 points and dished out seven assists, demonstrating his playmaking instincts. Jalen Duren complemented the effort with 14 points and three rebounds, adding a physical presence inside. The Pistons rotated a total of 18 participants, emphasizing a depth-first approach that allowed the coaching staff to assess a broad spectrum of talent.
The final scoreline reflected Detroit’s willingness to embrace an up-tempo style, with multiple lead changes and a series of clutch free-throw sequences. The Pistons’ ability to sustain scoring pressure, especially in the fourth quarter, ultimately tipped the balance in their favor.
Looking ahead: Raptors prepare for home opener
With the preseason now concluded, the Raptors return to their home arena to face the Chicago Bulls on Wednesday, opening their regular-season campaign. Their 2-3 preseason record underscores a need for consistency, but the performances of Jackson-Davis, Burnett, and Gaves provide promising building blocks. Toronto will look to integrate its core rotation and translate the flashes of offensive firepower into a more cohesive unit.
For Detroit, the 3-1 finish bolsters confidence as the team finalizes its lineup ahead of the season opener. The extensive player usage suggests a strategy of fine-tuning rotations while keeping competitive intensity high. Both clubs now shift focus from experimentation to execution as the NBA regular season looms.
