Jalen Duren Shines as Pistons Secure Win Despite Cade Cunningham Injury

The Detroit Pistons defeated the Washington Wizards 130-117 on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, despite losing star point guard Cade Cunningham to a back injury early in the first quarter. Jalen Duren stepped up in a major way, delivering a career performance to lead the Pistons to victory.

Cunningham Exits with Back Spasms

Cunningham sustained back spasms while diving for a loose ball at the 8:06 mark of the first quarter and did not return to the game according to the Detroit Free Press.

Duren’s Career Night

In Cunningham’s absence, Jalen Duren had a career night, scoring 36 points and grabbing 12 rebounds. He shot 13-of-17 from the field and 10-of-11 from the free-throw line as reported by Pro Football Network. This performance marked his 35th double-double of the season and his seventh 30-point game of the year.

Pistons Control the Game

The Pistons shot 51.3% overall and 40.7% from three-point range, taking control of the game in the third quarter. They outscored the Wizards 37-21 in the third period after leading 63-57 at halftime . Daniss Jenkins contributed 15 points and seven assists off the bench.

Playoff Implications

With the win, the Pistons improved to 49-19, moving within one victory of their first 50-win season since 2007-08. They hold a four-game lead over the Boston Celtics for the top seed in the Eastern Conference and an eight-game lead over the Cleveland Cavaliers in the Central Division .

Upcoming Matchup

The Pistons will face the Wizards again on Thursday, March 19, 2026, at Capital One Arena. A win would secure the season series against Washington, 3-1 .

Wizards Struggle

Bub Carrington led the Wizards with 30 points, while Will Riley added 21 and Justin Champagnie scored 18. The Wizards have lost 13 straight games and are nearing their longest losing streak of the season .