Powell's 36 points put the Heat to a 118-112 victory over the Pistons.

January 2nd - The Heat defeated the Pistons 118-112. Powell was in red-hot form, scoring a game - high 36 points, while Adebayo provided solid inside presence, contributing 15 points and 14 rebounds, becoming a crucial factor in the team's victory.

At the start of the game, the Pistons, led by Cunningham's orchestration of the offense, briefly took an 18-13 lead. The Heat then gradually stabilized, with Powell scoring consecutive points to fuel their offense. The Heat rallied late in the quarter to take the lead and extend it, ending the first quarter with a 33-26 advantage. In the second quarter, the Pistons' offensive efficiency fluctuated, allowing the Heat to further widen the gap. As the game progressed, the Pistons gradually tied the game and briefly took the lead. In crucial moments, Powell and Hex responded with consecutive scores. At halftime, the Heat maintained a 63-54 lead.

After switching sides, the Heat extended their lead to over 20 points. Powell was on fire in the third quarter, hitting several crucial shots from beyond the arc. At the end of the third quarter, the Heat maintained their lead at 94-81. In the final quarter, the Pistons narrowed the gap to just 2 points. In the critical moments, Adebayo made significant contributions on the rebounding and defensive ends, while Powell's continued output sealed the victory. Ultimately, the Heat defeated the Pistons 118-112.

Heat player statistics

Powell 36 points , 2 rebounds, 2 assists; Harks 19 points , 3 rebounds , 5 assists; Wiggins 17 points , 7 rebounds , 1 assist; Adebayo 15 points , 14 rebounds; Smith 9 points , 1 assist; Mitchell 8 points , 11 assists; Jovic 5 points , 5 rebounds , 5 assists; Von Taecião 5 points , 3 rebounds; Weir 4 points , 13 rebounds

Pistons player statistics

Cunningham 31 points , 8 rebounds, 11 assists; Sasser 18 points , 4 rebounds , 2 assists; Duren 12 points , 5 rebounds; Thompson 12 points , 2 rebounds, 2 assists; Green 11 points, 3 rebounds , 1 assist; Robinson 9 points , 2 rebounds, 2 assists; Reed 9 points , 7 rebounds, 1 assist; Stewart 6 points , 4 rebounds , 2 assists; Ivy 2 points, 1 rebound , 3 assists