The Boston Celtics, a perennial NBA contender, continued their winless start to the season on Sunday, falling to the Detroit Pistons amidst a challenging outlook shaped by recent roster changes and injuries.
The 119-113 road loss to the Pistons marks the Celtics’ third straight defeat to begin the new season. They are now one of six teams in the league still seeking their first victory.
Portuguese center Neemias Queta, starting for Boston, contributed four points, six rebounds, three assists, two steals, and three blocks. He made two of his three field goal attempts.
This was Queta’s lowest scoring output of the season so far, following a 17-point debut against the Philadelphia 76ers and an eight-point performance against the New York Knicks. The Celtics were plus-12 points with Queta on the court.
Jaylen Brown led the Celtics’ scoring effort with 41 points and six rebounds. Teammate Payton Pritchard added 21 points and a team-high 10 rebounds.
For the victorious Pistons, center Jalen Duren posted a dominant 24 points and 17 rebounds. Ausar Thompson added 21 points and 12 rebounds, while Cade Cunningham scored 25 points and dished out eight assists.
Boston’s challenging start comes as the team grapples with a roster significantly altered by off-season departures. Key players Jrue Holiday, Kristaps Porzingis, and Al Horford have all left.
The team’s outlook is further complicated by a serious injury to star player Jayson Tatum. These factors have contributed to the Celtics entering this season with diminished title ambitions.
The Detroit Pistons, by contrast, have opened their season with two wins in three games.
The Celtics will seek their first win on Monday when they travel to face the New Orleans Pelicans, another team currently without a victory.