Hardaway Jr. scores season-high 32 points in Pistons' win vs. Cavs

Coty M. Davis, The Detroit News on Mar 28, 2025

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DETROIT — Already without Cade Cunningham, the Detroit Pistons were extremely shorthanded against the Cleveland Cavaliers on Friday night at Little Caesars Arena. Tobias Harris was a late scratch due to right Achilles tendinopathy, leaving the Pistons without three starters amid the ongoing absence of Jaden Ivey.

The Pistons fought hard in the final game of the season against their Central Division rival, securing arguably their most impressive win of the season with a 133-122 victory. Detroit improved to 42-32 overall and extended its winning streak to three games.

Tim Hardaway Jr. scored a season-high 32 points on 10-of-18 shooting from the field with seven made 3-point field goals.

The Pistons extended their lead by as many as 21 points, but Cleveland embarked on a fourth-quarter comeback. Donovan Mitchell led the Cavaliers’ push by scoring 22 of his 38 points during the period.

With 3:31 remaining in the period, Mitchell nailed a 3-point basket to bring the Cavaliers within two points (119-117). However, on the Pistons’ next possession, Mitchell fouled Malik Beasley (19 points) during his 3-point field-goal attempt. After making three consecutive foul shots, Beasley's free throws were enough to end the Cavaliers' comeback attempt.

Up next

The Pistons will embark on a three-game road trip starting on Sunday against the Minnesota Timberwolves. They will then play a nationally televised game against the Oklahoma City Thunder on Wednesday before closing their road trip against the Toronto Raptors on April 4. Tipoff between the Timberwolves and Pistons is scheduled for 7 p.m. at Target Center.