Pistons Defeat Short-Handed Thunder in Potential NBA Finals Preview

Detroit takes down the defending champions in a lopsided matchup.

Feb. 26, 2026 at 6:57am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Detroit Pistons faced a depleted Oklahoma City Thunder squad on Wednesday night in what was billed as a potential NBA Finals preview. Despite the Thunder missing several key players, the Pistons were able to secure a convincing victory over the defending champions.

Why it matters

This game provided a glimpse into how the Pistons might fare against the Thunder in a potential championship series, though the absence of several Thunder stars made it difficult to draw definitive conclusions. The Pistons' performance could boost their confidence heading into the postseason.

The details

The Thunder were without several of their star players, including reigning MVP Kevin Durant, due to injuries and rest. This allowed the Pistons to take control of the game early and cruise to a comfortable win over the defending champions.

  • The game took place on Wednesday, February 26, 2026.

The players

Detroit Pistons

An NBA team based in Detroit, Michigan.

Oklahoma City Thunder

The defending NBA champions, based in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.

Kevin Durant

The reigning NBA MVP who was absent from the Thunder lineup due to injury or rest.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

While the Pistons' victory over the short-handed Thunder provided a glimpse into a potential Finals matchup, the absence of several key Thunder players made it difficult to draw definitive conclusions about how the two teams would fare against each other in a full-strength playoff series.