- Oct 16, 2026
- 0
- 0
SportsMafia Wire graphic. Team logos and player headshots via ESPN.
The Detroit Pistons defeated the Toronto Raptors 129-125 in their final preseason game Sunday, though Toronto's all-reserve lineup made the contest far closer than anticipated.
Toronto rested its rotation players and opened with Graves, Martin, Jackson-Davis, Bradley and Burnett. Detroit countered with its starters as it finalized regular-season preparations.
Malachi Smith, on a two-way contract, led all scorers with 24 points, five rebounds and three assists. Trayce Jackson-Davis added 23 points and three rebounds, making all his free throws except an intentional miss designed to force overtime. Nimari Burnett contributed 17 points and five rebounds, while Alijah Martin scored 15 before sitting most of the second half. Allen Graves finished with nine points, eight rebounds, two assists, a steal and a block.
The Raptors trailed for much of the night but opened the fourth quarter on a 20-6 run to take their first lead since the opening period. Burnett, Smith and Key fueled the surge with key three-pointers. Jamarion Sharp also impressed with a standout block in the second quarter that showcased his length and timing.
Toronto opens its regular season Wednesday against the Chicago Bulls. Smith, who led all scorers, said he is "looking owed more than the two-way he's currently on."
Written by the SportsMafia Wire desk in our own words from the original reporting (AI-assisted, checked against the source).