The Boston Celtics faced the Detroit Pistons on October 26, 2025, hoping to secure their first win of the season. However, despite a significant effort from Jaylen Brown and a starting lineup change that included rookie Hugo Gonzalez, the Celtics fell short, losing 119-113. This defeat marks their first 0-3 start since 2013, intensifying concerns about the team’s performance and direction. This article will delve into the key moments of the game, analyze the factors contributing to the Celtics’ loss, and explore the implications for the team moving forward.
The game saw standout performances, particularly from Jaylen Brown, who scored 40 points, demonstrating his offensive capabilities. Rookie Hugo Gonzalez was given a starting role, bringing defensive intensity early on. However, persistent issues such as defensive rebounding and inconsistent three-point shooting continued to plague the Celtics, allowing the Pistons to capitalize and secure the victory. Let’s break down the game to understand what happened.
Gonzalez’s Defensive Spark and Early Celtics Lead
The Celtics started the game with noticeable energy, particularly on the defensive end, thanks to the inclusion of Hugo Gonzalez in the starting lineup. Gonzalez quickly made his presence felt by guarding Pistons’ All-Star point guard Cade Cunningham, recording a block and a steal within the first minute of play. His defensive contributions helped the Celtics jump to an early 14-2 lead, setting a positive tone for the game. “Hugo’s job is to defend at the highest of levels,” coach Joe Mazzulla said, emphasizing the strategic intent behind starting the rookie.
Jaylen Brown and Payton Pritchard also contributed significantly in the first quarter, scoring 10 points each. Brown’s scoring and Pritchard’s all-around play helped the Celtics build a lead as large as 17 points. However, the Pistons began to chip away at the lead towards the end of the quarter, hinting at the challenges that lay ahead for Boston.
Pistons Close the Gap Before Halftime
As the first quarter closed with a 10-2 run by the Pistons, the momentum began to shift. In the second quarter, Detroit continued to close the gap, eventually taking the lead before halftime. Duncan Robinson’s three-pointer put the Pistons ahead 59-58 with just 43.7 seconds left in the half. This comeback underscored the Celtics’ struggles to maintain consistency throughout the game. “We have to find a way to sustain our energy and focus for the entire 48 minutes,” Brown commented after the game, reflecting on the team’s lapses.
The Celtics’ struggles in the second quarter were largely due to poor three-point shooting and defensive rebounding. Boston shot just 4-for-14 from beyond the arc and allowed the Pistons to grab five offensive rebounds, leading to 10 second-chance points. These issues have been recurring themes for the Celtics early in the season, highlighting areas that need immediate improvement.
Three-Point Shooting Struggles Continue
One of the most significant issues plaguing the Celtics has been their inconsistent three-point shooting. Entering the game against the Pistons, the Celtics ranked near the bottom of the NBA in three-point shooting percentage. This trend continued as key players like Pritchard, Derrick White, and Anfernee Simons struggled to find their rhythm from beyond the arc. “We know we have the shooters, but we need to be more consistent,” Mazzulla noted, emphasizing the need for better shot selection and execution.
Pritchard, White, and Simons combined to shoot just 7-for-26 from three-point range against the Pistons. White, who set the Celtics’ single-season franchise record for made threes last season, had an uncharacteristically erratic performance, shooting 3-for-11. These struggles allowed the Pistons to focus their defense on other areas, further compounding the Celtics’ offensive challenges.
Defensive Rebounding Deficiencies
Another critical factor in the Celtics’ loss was their inability to secure defensive rebounds. The Pistons dominated the glass, particularly on the offensive end, racking up 18 offensive boards and 30 second-chance points. Jalen Duren and Ausar Thompson combined for 12 offensive rebounds, creating numerous opportunities for Detroit to extend possessions and score easy baskets. “Rebounding is about effort and positioning, and we weren’t good enough in those areas tonight,” said a frustrated Mazzulla.
The Celtics’ lack of size and top-end rebounding talent in their frontcourt has been a concern. With Jayson Tatum injured, the Celtics struggled to contain the Pistons’ big men, leading to critical breakdowns in their defense. Addressing this issue will be crucial for the Celtics as they look to turn their season around.
Gonzalez’s Playmaking Wanes
After a promising start defensively, Hugo Gonzalez’s impact waned as the game progressed. He struggled in the second quarter, finishing with a team-worst minus-11, and was phased out of the rotation after halftime. While Gonzalez shows potential as a high-energy disruptor, his limited minutes highlight the Celtics’ current roster limitations. “He’s got a lot to learn, but he’s willing to put in the work,” Mazzulla said about Gonzalez. The fact that a rookie is already starting reflects the issues with the Celtics’ depth.
Gonzalez’s early foul trouble and struggles on the offensive end contributed to his reduced role. As he gains more experience and develops his game, Gonzalez could become a valuable asset for the Celtics. However, for now, his inconsistent performance underscores the team’s need for more reliable contributions from their role players.
Minott’s Fourth-Quarter Spark
In the fourth quarter, Josh Minott provided a spark off the bench, helping the Celtics trim their deficit to single digits. Minott, who was a healthy DNP against the Knicks in the previous game, made several key plays, including a steal, a three-pointer, and an and-one finish. “Josh brought a lot of energy and gave us a lift when we needed it,” Brown said of Minott’s performance. Minott’s contributions injected life into the Celtics’ comeback attempt.
Pritchard’s driving layup cut the Pistons’ lead to just one possession with 3:21 to play. However, the Celtics’ defensive rebounding deficiencies continued to haunt them down the stretch, thwarting their comeback bid. The Pistons grabbed five more offensive rebounds and scored four second-chance baskets, sealing the victory.
Other Observations from the Game
Luka Garza returned after missing Friday’s game with a concussion, logging 12 minutes and finishing with as many fouls as points and rebounds combined. Xavier Tillman and Jordan Walsh were DNP-CDs in the loss. Neemias Queta and Derrick White combined for six steals and five blocks, with the Celtics outscoring the Pistons by 12 points during Queta’s minutes and by 11 points during White’s. White also received a technical foul for arguing a third-quarter foul call.
Conclusion: Celtics’ Struggles Continue
The Celtics’ loss to the Pistons marks their first 0-3 start since 2013, highlighting significant issues that need to be addressed. Despite a strong performance from Jaylen Brown and a defensive spark from rookie Hugo Gonzalez, the Celtics were undone by poor three-point shooting, defensive rebounding deficiencies, and inconsistent play from their role players. These recurring problems have prevented the Celtics from closing out games and securing victories.
Moving forward, the Celtics must focus on improving their consistency on both ends of the floor. Addressing their rebounding issues and finding reliable contributions from their supporting cast will be crucial. As they continue their road trip, the Celtics will need to find solutions quickly to avoid falling further behind in the standings. The road ahead will require perseverance, adaptability, and a renewed commitment to the fundamentals of the game.
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