The Los Angeles Lakers' winning streak ended at nine games after losing 113-110 to the Detroit Pistons at Little Caesars Arena on Monday.
The Lakers rallied from a 16-point deficit to take a 110–109 lead after Austin Reaves' jumper with 30 seconds remaining. However, Dennis Jenkins immediately responded with a bucket and two free throws.
Los Angeles still had a chance to win, but Luka Doncic missed a three-pointer.
The Lakers fell to 46–26, while the Pistons won their fourth straight game and seventh game in eight assignments to improve to 52–19. They still suffered a loss as Cade Cunningham was diagnosed with a damaged lung, keeping him out for a long period of time.
LeBron James admits the Pistons have didn't miss a beat Despite Cunningham's absence, as Coty Davis of The Detroit News reports.
"They're super physical, super fast, they play well, they execute well, and they're well-coached. No difference. I mean, obviously, the only difference is that you have an MVP-type caliber player out there," James said.
"But when you have a really good team, guys step up. They can't compensate for what Cade brings to the table because Cade is that guy, but other guys are stepping up."
“Nobody…when you have a really good team, people step up.”
LeBron James speaks on whether it makes a difference playing against #piston With and without Cade Cunningham.
The Pistons are now 8-2 without Cunningham after their win against the Lakers. pic.twitter.com/OCpkZgvaLe
- Coty M. Davis (@CotyDavis_24) 24 March 2026
James did not score in the first half before finishing with 12 points, nine rebounds and 10 assists.
Jenkins, who has played admirably for Cunningham, scored a career-high 30 points on 11-of-18 shooting, including 4-of-5 from deep. He added four rebounds and eight assists.
The Pistons, who have already clinched a playoff spot, have others who could step up without Cunningham, including Marcus Sasser, Caris LeVert, Kevin Huerter and Javonte Green.
