Pistons Defeat Raptors Behind Duren's 31 Points

Detroit clinches Central Division title with 127-116 win over Toronto.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 8:35am

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Jalen Duren scored a game-high 31 points and grabbed 9 rebounds as the Detroit Pistons defeated the Toronto Raptors 127-116 on Tuesday night. The Pistons, who were missing several starters, shot 60.3% from the field and overcame 21 turnovers to clinch the Central Division title for the first time since 2007-08.

Why it matters

The Pistons' win over the Raptors, a playoff contender, demonstrates the team's depth and ability to win without key players. This victory helps solidify Detroit's position atop the Eastern Conference standings as they make a push for the playoffs.

The details

Duren had 17 points by halftime as the Pistons took a 59-54 lead. Detroit pulled away in the third quarter, stretching the lead to as much as 20 points. The Raptors made a late run to cut the deficit to 10, but the Pistons were able to hold on for the victory.

  • The game was played on Tuesday, April 1, 2026.
  • Detroit was coming off an overtime loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder on Monday, April 31, 2026.

The players

Jalen Duren

A 23-year-old forward for the Detroit Pistons who scored a game-high 31 points and grabbed 9 rebounds in the win.

RJ Barrett

A 25-year-old guard for the Toronto Raptors who led his team with 24 points and 6 rebounds.

Cade Cunningham

An All-Star forward for the Detroit Pistons who missed the game due to a collapsed lung.

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What they’re saying

“We knew we had to come out and play hard, especially without some of our starters. Jalen really stepped up and carried us tonight.”

— Daniss Jenkins, Pistons Guard

What’s next

The Pistons will look to build on this victory as they continue their push for the playoffs. Their next game is against the Milwaukee Bucks on Friday, April 4, 2026.

The takeaway

The Pistons' depth and balanced scoring attack proved too much for the Raptors, as Detroit clinched the Central Division title and solidified their position atop the Eastern Conference standings.