DETROIT — When the NBA released its 2026-27 schedule in August, promotional ads featuring the Detroit Pistons highlighted Cade Cunningham, Jalen Duren, and Ausar Thompson. This is fitting, as all three are considered core members of the franchise. However, coach J.B. Bickerstaff has consistently acknowledged that the Pistons' improvement over the past two years has come from factors beyond their core players' production.
In the first game of the season, Bickerstaff’s belief was on full display as Javonte Green and Duncan Robinson delivered strong production, helping the Pistons overcome a 22-point deficit en route to a 121-113 comeback victory over the Boston Celtics Tuesday afternoon inside Little Caesars Arena. Green finished with 19 points, shooting 5-of-10 from the field and 5-of-8 from beyond the arc. Robinson added 21 points on 5-of-9 shooting from deep.
Paul George led the Celtics with 38 points on 12-of-20 shooting, including seven made 3-point field goals. Derrick White added 17 points.
Observations and notes
▶ Early 3-point shooting woes: It's only the first game of the season, and most shooters need time to find their rhythm in a new system, but the Pistons shot poorly from the arc. Before embarking on a 33-13 run midway through the third quarter, the Pistons began the night shooting 6-of-25 from behind the arc. Isaiah Joe shot 2-of-7 from deep.
▶ Thompson minutes: Bickerstaff stated during training camp that Ausar Thompson will play more minutes this season compared to last, when he averaged 26.0 minutes over 73 games. In the first game of the season, Thompson played 33 minutes. He added 11 points, 11 rebounds, and five assists.
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This article originally appeared on The Detroit News: Green, Robinson lead Pistons to season-opening win over Celtics