Quick Read
- Paul Reed started for the Detroit Pistons against the Toronto Raptors on February 11, 2026.
- Reed’s elevated role was due to suspensions of Jalen Duren and Isaiah Stewart, and Ron Holland’s absence.
- The game was the Pistons’ last before the NBA All-Star break.
- The Pistons faced the Raptors (32-22 record) with a 39-13 record.
DETROIT (Azat TV) – Detroit Pistons forward Paul Reed, affectionately known as “BBall Paul,” assumed a pivotal starting role on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, as the team faced the Toronto Raptors at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto, Ontario. Reed’s elevated position in the lineup came as the Pistons navigated significant absences, with key players Jalen Duren and Isaiah Stewart suspended following a Monday night brawl against the Charlotte Hornets, and Ron Holland sidelined for personal reasons.
The game marked the Pistons’ final outing before the NBA All-Star break, placing additional pressure on the short-handed squad to conclude the unofficial first half of the season on a high note. Reed’s inclusion in the projected starting five alongside Cade Cunningham, Duncan Robinson, Ausar Thompson, and Tobias Harris underscored the team’s reliance on his versatility and defensive prowess in the paint. The Pistons, holding a 39-13 record, were tasked with confronting a formidable Toronto Raptors team, which entered the contest with a 32-22 record and recent victories over the Jazz, Bulls, and Pacers.
Paul Reed’s Expanded Role Amid Player Absences
The suspensions of Jalen Duren and Isaiah Stewart, both integral components of the Pistons’ frontcourt, created an immediate void that Paul Reed was expected to fill. Duren and Stewart were involved in a heated altercation during a game against the Charlotte Hornets, leading to their disciplinary actions. Additionally, the absence of Ron Holland further depleted the team’s depth, particularly in the forward positions.
Reed, a tenacious forward known for his energy and rebounding, was anticipated to provide crucial minutes and defensive intensity against the Raptors’ dynamic lineup, which included Immanuel Quickley, Brandon Ingram, RJ Barrett, Scottie Barnes, and Jakob Poeltl. His ability to guard multiple positions and contribute on the offensive glass became even more vital given the circumstances.
Pistons’ Pre-All-Star Challenge in Toronto
The matchup against the Toronto Raptors presented a significant challenge for the Detroit Pistons, especially given their depleted roster. The Raptors have historically proven to be a tough opponent, often bringing a high level of competitiveness against Detroit. For the Pistons, securing a victory before the All-Star break was not only about improving their impressive 39-13 record but also about maintaining team morale and momentum heading into the mid-season pause.
The game was scheduled for 7:30 p.m. ET at Scotiabank Arena and was broadcast on Fan Duel Sports Network Detroit. The Pistons entered the game as slight underdogs, with odds placing them at +1, reflecting the difficulty of playing a strong opponent on the road without key starters.
Impact of Frontcourt Adjustments on Game Strategy
With Duren and Stewart out, the Pistons’ coaching staff likely had to implement significant adjustments to their game strategy. The reliance on Paul Reed, along with other available frontcourt players like two-way center Tolu Smith, who was also expected to see increased minutes, highlighted a shift towards a more adaptable and potentially smaller lineup. This situation offered Reed a prime opportunity to demonstrate his capabilities in an expanded offensive and defensive role, potentially influencing future rotations.
Paul Reed’s prominent role in the Detroit Pistons’ lineup against the Toronto Raptors, necessitated by significant player absences, underscored his growing importance to the team’s depth and strategic flexibility, offering a critical test of his ability to anchor the frontcourt in challenging circumstances.