Pistons Defeat Timberwolves 113-108 Without Injured Stars

Daniss Jenkins shines as Detroit maintains lead in East despite missing Cade Cunningham and Isaiah Stewart.

Apr. 3, 2026 at 3:29am

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An abstract expressionist painting in vibrant neon colors, with blurred basketball player forms and dynamic brushstrokes conveying the intensity and energy of an NBA game.The Pistons' gritty victory over the Timberwolves showcases the team's depth and resilience despite key injuries.Today in Detroit

The Detroit Pistons defeated the Minnesota Timberwolves 113-108 on Thursday night, led by strong performances from Jalen Duran and Daniss Jenkins. The Pistons played without injured stars Cade Cunningham and Isaiah Stewart, but have still won 8 of their last 10 games to maintain a 4.5-game lead over the Boston Celtics for the top seed in the Eastern Conference. The Timberwolves were also missing their star Anthony Edwards, and were led by Julius Randle's 27 points.

Why it matters

The Pistons have continued to win despite key injuries, showcasing the depth and resilience of their roster. This victory keeps them firmly in control of the East, while the Timberwolves missed an opportunity to gain ground in the tight Western Conference playoff race.

The details

The game was close throughout, with the teams tied 54-54 at halftime and the Timberwolves holding an 80-79 lead going into the fourth quarter. But the Pistons went on a 20-5 run in the final period to pull away for the victory. Jalen Duran had a double-double with 22 points and 14 rebounds, while Daniss Jenkins scored 26 points and dished out 8 assists. The Timberwolves were led by Julius Randle's 27 points, but couldn't overcome the Pistons' strong finish.

  • The game was played on Thursday, April 3, 2026.

The players

Jalen Duran

A 22-year-old center for the Detroit Pistons who had a double-double with 22 points and 14 rebounds in the game.

Daniss Jenkins

A breakout player for the Pistons this season, Jenkins scored 26 points and added 8 assists in the win.

Julius Randle

The Timberwolves' leading scorer with 27 points, 6 rebounds and 6 assists.

Cade Cunningham

The Pistons' star player who missed the game due to injury, having been sidelined for the past 9 games.

Isaiah Stewart

The Pistons' starting center who has missed the past 11 games with a left calf strain.

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What they’re saying

“We've had to overcome a lot of injuries this season, but the team has really stepped up. Daniss has been a revelation for us.”

— J.B. Bickerstaff, Pistons Head Coach

What’s next

Both the Pistons and Timberwolves face the Philadelphia 76ers on the road next, with Minnesota visiting them on Friday followed by Detroit on Saturday.

The takeaway

The Pistons have proven their depth and resilience by continuing to win despite key injuries to stars like Cade Cunningham. Their ability to overcome adversity has them firmly in control of the top seed in the East, while the Timberwolves missed an opportunity to gain ground in the tight Western Conference playoff race.