NBA Roundup: Heat Top East-Leading Pistons in 4th Straight Win

The NBA welcomed 2026 with a five-game slate on New Year’s Day, featuring intriguing matchups across the league. The highlight was the Miami Heat’s resilient 118-112 road victory over the Eastern Conference-leading Detroit Pistons, extending their winning streak to four games. Norman Powell’s explosive 36-point performance powered the Heat, while the Pistons suffered a rare home setback despite a late comeback attempt. Elsewhere, the Houston Rockets dominated the Brooklyn Nets, the Boston Celtics pulled away from the Sacramento Kings, the Philadelphia 76ers handled the Dallas Mavericks, and the LA Clippers extended their streak against the Utah Jazz.

Heat Hold Off Pistons’ Late Surge for Signature Win

In Detroit, the Miami Heat (19-15) kicked off the new year with a statement win over the top-seeded Pistons (25-9), snapping Detroit’s strong home momentum. Norman Powell erupted for a game-high 36 points, knocking down seven three-pointers on 14 attempts and shooting 12-of-23 overall. Bam Adebayo contributed a double-double with 15 points and 14 rebounds, providing the interior anchor.

The Heat built a commanding lead early, outscoring Detroit 33-26 in the first quarter and carrying a 63-54 advantage into halftime. They extended it to 22 points in the third with a 15-2 run to open the period, as the Pistons missed their first seven shots and committed turnovers.

Detroit mounted a furious fourth-quarter rally, trimming the deficit to two points late after a Javonte Green three-pointer. However, Jaime Jaquez Jr.’s clutch jumper and timely free throws sealed the victory for Miami. Jaquez finished with strong all-around numbers, while Andrew Wiggins added 17 points.

For the Pistons, Cade Cunningham led with 31 points, 11 assists, and seven rebounds, but it wasn’t enough. Marcus Sasser provided a bench spark with 18 points, including four threes. The loss highlighted Detroit’s occasional vulnerability at home, despite entering with a stellar 13-2 record at Little Caesars Arena.

This win boosts Miami’s playoff positioning in the East, showcasing their depth amid injuries. The Pistons, still atop the conference, face a quick turnaround against Cleveland next.

Rockets Cruise Past Nets for Fourth Straight Victory

The Houston Rockets (now 21-10) dominated the Brooklyn Nets (record not specified in reports) 120-96 in New York, never trailing en route to their fourth consecutive win. Kevin Durant led with 22 points and a season-high 11 assists, while Amen Thompson poured in 23 points. Alperen Sengun added 20 points efficiently after missing two games with a calf injury.

Houston jumped out early, building leads in both halves and holding Brooklyn to inefficient shooting. The Nets struggled without key players like Michael Porter Jr. (illness) and others injured. This marked Houston’s first win in Brooklyn in seven years, underscoring their rising contention in the West.

Celtics Pull Away in Fourth to Top Kings

In Sacramento, the Boston Celtics improved their record with a 120-106 victory over the Kings. Jaylen Brown tallied 29 points and 10 rebounds, while Derrick White exploded for 14 of his 16 points in the fourth quarter to secure the pull-away.

The game was tied entering the final period before White’s surge. Boston’s balanced attack and late execution overcame a competitive Kings effort, keeping the defending champions surging.

76ers Handle Mavericks Behind Maxey’s Triple-Double Threat

Tyrese Maxey flirted with a triple-double, posting 34 points, 10 assists, and eight rebounds as the Philadelphia 76ers defeated the Dallas Mavericks 123-108. Joel Embiid chipped in 22 points in a strong all-around team effort.

The 76ers controlled much of the game, using a big second quarter to build separation. Dallas couldn’t mount a sustained comeback, dropping the contest on home court.

Clippers Extend Streak with Kawhi’s 45-Point Outburst

Kawhi Leonard scored a season-high 45 points, including despite a bloodied nose, leading the LA Clippers to a 118-101 win over the Utah Jazz. James Harden added 20 points as the Clippers won their sixth straight, blowing a 21-point lead but recovering for the victory.

This capped a successful night for Western Conference contenders.

League Notes and Looking Ahead

The slate provided exciting openers to 2026, with road teams going 4-1. Norman Powell’s performance in Miami’s upset stands out, bolstering his All-Star case in a loaded Eastern backcourt. Detroit’s loss doesn’t derail their strong season but serves as a reminder of the conference’s competitiveness.

All-Star voting continues, with fan ballots influencing starters. Games resume Friday with a full schedule, including notable matchups as teams build momentum into the new year.

The NBA’s parity shines early in 2026, with surprises like Miami’s win over Detroit highlighting any team’s potential on any night.