Pistons Defeat Hornets, Clinch Play-In Tournament Spot

Jalen Duren's 20-point performance leads Detroit to 118-100 win over Charlotte

Apr. 11, 2026 at 4:03am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a basketball game, with the players' forms broken down into abstract shapes and planes of color representing the teams' uniforms.The Pistons' victory over the Hornets showcases the team's growing strength and the Hornets' struggle to secure a direct playoff berth.Charlotte Today

The Detroit Pistons defeated the Charlotte Hornets 118-100 on Friday night, with Jalen Duren scoring 20 points and Duncan Robinson adding 19. The win locked the Hornets into the NBA's play-in tournament.

Why it matters

This game had significant playoff implications, as the Hornets' loss officially eliminated them from direct playoff contention and consigned them to the play-in tournament. The Pistons, meanwhile, continue to build momentum as they look to return to the postseason.

The details

Jalen Duren led the way for the Pistons with 20 points, while Duncan Robinson scored 19. The Hornets struggled to keep pace, unable to overcome Detroit's strong offensive performance.

  • The game took place on Friday, April 11, 2026.

The players

Jalen Duren

A 22-year-old power forward for the Detroit Pistons who had a standout 20-point performance in the game.

Duncan Robinson

A 28-year-old shooting guard for the Detroit Pistons who scored 19 points in the win over Charlotte.

Charlotte Hornets

The NBA team that was defeated by the Detroit Pistons, officially locking them into the play-in tournament.

Detroit Pistons

The NBA team that defeated the Charlotte Hornets, continuing their push towards a playoff berth.

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The takeaway

This game was a significant step forward for the Detroit Pistons, who continue to build momentum and position themselves for a potential playoff run. Meanwhile, the loss officially consigned the Charlotte Hornets to the play-in tournament, where they will have to fight to secure a spot in the postseason.