No Cunningham? Breakout star Daniss Jenkins leads Detroit to another victory

The Detroit Pistons secured another convincing victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves (113-108) Thursday night, despite the absence of their respective superstars. Anthony Edwards was out for Minnesota due to a knee injury and illness, while Cade Cunningham continues his recovery from a pneumothorax.

Daniss Jenkins once again shined in Cunningham’s absence, posting 26 points, 5 rebounds and 8 assists. The backup point guard continues to impress since joining the starting lineup, confirming his status as the season’s breakout star for the Pistons.

Daniss JENKINS

26

PTS

5

REB

8

AST

DET

113108

MIN

A decisive run in the fourth quarter

Jalen Duren also delivered a remarkable performance with 22 points and 14 rebounds, physically dominating Rudy Gobert in the paint. The Pistons’ center displayed impressive efficiency, particularly in the crucial moments of the game.

The game remained close for three quarters, with the score at 80-79 in Minnesota’s favor entering the final period. That’s when Detroit raised its level, going on a 20-5 run against the Timberwolves to take definitive control of the game. Duncan Robinson sealed the victory with a three-pointer with three minutes remaining, extending the lead to 103-92.

Julius Randle led the Timberwolves’ resistance with 27 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists, supported by Ayo Dosunmu and Naz Reid who each added 19 points. Mike Conley set the tone in the first quarter by scoring all 14 of his points in the opening period.

Pistons Daniss Jenkins 26 PTS (9-19 FG, 2-2 3P), 8 AST, 5 REB, +13 (+/-) vs. Twolves https://t.co/sMxCckojxX pic.twitter.com/Hbgipq3POU

— Role Player Performances (@BenchHighlights) April 3, 2026

Detroit solidifies its first place in the East

This seventh win in nine games without Cunningham allows the Pistons to maintain their 4.5-game lead over Boston for first place in the Eastern Conference, with a record of 56 wins and 21 losses. The Michigan team demonstrates impressive roster depth despite the absences.

Ausar Thompson, recently named Eastern Conference Defensive Player of the Month, recorded a characteristic stat line with 7 points, 9 rebounds, 9 assists, 2 steals and 3 blocks. His versatility continues to be a major asset for Detroit.

The Timberwolves (46-30) see their situation become more complicated in the West, sliding to sixth place, one game behind Houston for the fifth spot. Edwards’ absence deprives the team of its primary offensive creator, exposing the limitations of Minnesota’s half-court offense.

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