The Detroit Pistons continued to thrive without Cade Cunningham as they snapped the Los Angeles Lakers' nine-game winning streak on Monday.
The Pistons escaped the Lakers 113–110 at Little Caesars Arena, with Dennis Jenkins leading the way in the fourth quarter with a career-best 30 points, including a clutch basket.
Detroit led by as many as 16 points as Los Angeles rallied to keep the game close. However, the Pistons stayed the course and defended the Purple and Gold.
Lebron James much appreciated At the Pistons' restraints, as shown in video posted by Spectrum Sportsnet.
"You give credit where credit's due. They're the No. 1 team in the East. They've still got a really good team even with their All-NBA player out. I give them a lot of credit. We gave ourselves a chance. That's all you can ask for," said James, who had 12 points, nine rebounds and 10 assists.
LeBron on tonight's loss: "Definitely you give credit where credit is due. They're the #1 team in the East... I give them a lot of credit. We gave ourselves a chance. That's all you can ask for." pic.twitter.com/hjlYqDerHe
- Spectrum SportsNet (@SpectrumSN) 24 March 2026
The Pistons have now won four consecutive games and lost only once in their last eight contests. They solidified their hold on the top spot in the Eastern Conference with a 52–19 record. They have already secured the playoff ticket.
They have a relatively tough schedule ahead of them as they will face the Atlanta Hawks, New Orleans Pelicans, Minnesota Timberwolves, Oklahoma City Thunder and Toronto Raptors.
But as James noted, Detroit has also played well without Cunningham, who will miss an extended period of time due to a collapsed lung, and the players will be ready for the challenge.
Jalen Duren added 20 points, 11 rebounds and four assists against the Lakers. Seven other players scored at least six points, highlighting the team's depth.
