Cade Cunningham delivered a standout performance with 32 points, nine rebounds, and seven assists, leading the Detroit Pistons (22-21) to a 107-96 victory over the Houston Rockets (28-14) on Monday.

Cunningham shot 12 of 22 from the field, including 19 points in the third quarter, helping Detroit establish a 90-80 lead heading into the final period. His all-around contribution powered the Pistons to a critical win against one of the Western Conference’s top teams.

Jalen Duren added 16 points and 14 rebounds for the Pistons, while Malik Beasley scored 17 points off the bench. Ausar Thompson contributed 11 points and nine rebounds as Detroit shot 48% from the field and made 10 of 27 attempts from beyond the arc.

Houston’s Fred VanVleet led his team with 20 points, while Jalen Green chipped in 19 points. Ausar’s twin brother Amen returned to action after missing Saturday’s game and added 17 points, but the Rockets struggled offensively, shooting just 39% from the field and 28.2% from three-point range.

The Pistons overcame 23 turnovers by forcing 17 Houston miscues, converting them into 19 points. Detroit also controlled the glass, outrebounding the Rockets 52-39, and dominated the paint with a 50-40 scoring advantage.

Detroit’s defensive effort played a crucial role in holding Houston to poor shooting. The Pistons’ interior presence, led by Duren, contributed to five blocks and a strong rebounding edge, helping them maintain control despite turnover issues.

The Rockets had balanced scoring, with five players reaching double figures. Alperen Sengun contributed 11 points and eight rebounds, while Cam Whitmore provided 10 points off the bench. However, their shooting woes and inability to capitalize on Detroit’s turnovers proved costly.

Detroit’s bench also provided valuable contributions, with Beasley’s three triples and Isaiah Stewart’s eight rebounds helping solidify the victory. Marcus Sasser added eight points, displaying the team’s depth.

Houston’s inability to find consistency from deep hurt their chances of mounting a comeback. Despite strong efforts from VanVleet and Thompson, the team shot just 11 of 39 from three-point range, making it difficult to close the gap in the fourth quarter.