Pistons Clinch Playoff Spot, First in East

Detroit secures postseason berth despite injuries, continues surprising turnaround

Mar. 21, 2026 at 4:05pm

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The Detroit Pistons have clinched a playoff spot, becoming the first Eastern Conference team to do so this season. The Pistons, who won just 14 games two years ago, have undergone an incredible turnaround, led by strong performances from Jalen Duren and Daniss Jenkins in a 115-101 win over the Warriors on Friday night.

Why it matters

The Pistons' rapid rise from the NBA's basement to a playoff team is a remarkable feat, especially considering they've done it without their star player Cade Cunningham for extended stretches due to injury. Their ability to win without their top player showcases the team's depth and resilience.

The details

The Pistons secured their playoff berth with a 115-101 victory over the Warriors on Friday night. Jalen Duren led the way with 23 points, while Daniss Jenkins added 22 points in a starting role with Cunningham sidelined. The Pistons now hold a four-game lead over the Celtics for the top seed in the East, an impressive feat considering Cunningham's recent absence.

  • The Pistons won just 14 games two years ago, the worst record in the NBA.
  • On Friday, March 21, 2026, the Pistons clinched a playoff spot, becoming the first Eastern Conference team to do so this season.
  • Cade Cunningham has been out for at least two weeks with a collapsed lung, and may miss the rest of the regular season and playoffs.

The players

Jalen Duren

A key contributor for the Pistons, scoring 23 points in the game that clinched their playoff berth.

Daniss Jenkins

The Pistons' backup point guard, who stepped up with 22 points in the starting role with Cade Cunningham injured.

Cade Cunningham

The Pistons' star player, who has been sidelined for at least two weeks with a collapsed lung and may miss the rest of the regular season and playoffs.

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What they’re saying

“They've been a joy to coach. They've been one of the most connected teams I've ever been a part of. I feel fortunate every single day I get to come to work with these guys. … The spirit they play with every night is just different here.”

— J.B., Head Coach

What’s next

The Pistons will look to hold onto the top seed in the Eastern Conference, despite the extended absence of Cade Cunningham. Their ability to win without their star player will be tested as the playoffs approach.

The takeaway

The Pistons' remarkable turnaround from the NBA's basement to a playoff team in just two years is a testament to the team's depth, resilience, and coaching. Their success without their star player Cade Cunningham showcases the team's overall strength and ability to win in different ways.