Despite a solid start, the Detroit Pistons couldn’t sustain their momentum, ultimately losing to the Miami Heat 112-100. While the Pistons are more focused on the draft lottery, Rodney McGruder, a former Heat player, emerged as their standout perimeter player on Sunday.

Jimmy Butler led the charge for the Heat, contributing 26 points and 10 assists. Bam Adebayo provided strong support with 22 points and 10 rebounds, while Tyler Herro finished with 19 points.

First Half Battle

The Pistons started strong, leading 29-26 after the first quarter as they shot an impressive 65% from the field. The Heat, however, struggled with 3-pointers, making only 2 of 12. Miami found their rhythm in the second quarter, securing an 11-point lead before ending the half with a 52-47 advantage.

Late Collapse for Detroit Pistons

Entering the fourth quarter, the Heat trailed 81-74 but quickly closed the gap. A four-point play by Kyle Lowry with 8:38 remaining brought the Heat within one point at 87-86.

“Butler’s relentlessness later tied it 98-98 with four minutes to play,” said one of the players. Following Butler’s efforts, a critical 3-pointer from Herro with 3:20 remaining put the Heat ahead 101-98. Prior to this shot, Herro had been struggling, shooting 4 of 14 from the field and 1 of 7 on 3-pointers.

Butler then extended the lead to 103-98 with a jumper, and more heroics from Herro sealed the victory for the Heat.