What caused the Pistons to beat Lakers?
Pistons snap Lakers nine-game win streak with high-effort upset
The Detroit Pistons ended the Los Angeles Lakers’ nine-game winning streak with a 113-110 win in Detroit on Monday, in a loss that came down to late-game execution and effort. Luka Dončić nearly turned the game on his own, hitting a late shot that didn’t fall, as the Lakers fell short after playing a spirited contest.
The key difference for Detroit was scoring from players outside the usual stars. Daniss Jenkins produced a career-high 30 points, including six points in the final 34 seconds, to give the Pistons a late lift. That production helped offset the game’s volatility and ensured Detroit could withstand the Lakers’ attempts to reclaim control in the closing moments.
The Lakers’ sideline and lineup context also mattered. Multiple Lakers accounts in the pool highlight that Detroit’s win came during an environment where Detroit was without Cade Cunningham, and the Lakers were missing other pieces as well. Still, Detroit’s ability to generate points when the game tightened—especially through Jenkins’ final stretch—proved decisive.
How it played out
- Streak snaps: Los Angeles’ run of wins ended at nine.
- Late scoring swing: Jenkins’ scoring burst in the final minute-plus gave Detroit the margin it needed.
- Clutch moments: Dončić’s late attempt rimmed out, and the Lakers couldn’t finish the comeback.
Why it matters
For Los Angeles, the setback is a reminder that the team can be vulnerable when opponents play with urgency and when end-of-game shotmaking falls just short. For Detroit, the win is a quality step—driven by a career night—that can energize a roster and improve confidence in high-pressure situations.