Detroit Game Recap

DETROIT — Before the game against the Pistons, coach JJ Redick shared a pregame message about the Lakers’ recent progress. He emphasized that they’ve been showing resilience—bending but not breaking, which is a marked shift from their early season struggles.

Typically, in tough moments, teams tend to go into “self-preservation” mode, but that didn’t seem to apply this time.

The 113-110 loss at Little Caesars Arena illustrated Redick’s point perfectly. Despite facing challenges like the Pistons’ physical play, poor 3-point shooting, and questionable officiating, the Lakers managed to keep their composure.

“We did a good job of just hanging in there and getting back in the game,” Redick remarked.

At one point, they trailed by as much as 16 points, but they managed to tie the game multiple times in the second half, even leading 110-109 with just 30 seconds left thanks to a runner by Austin Reaves.

However, Danis Jenkins, who had an outstanding night, hit a crucial jumper with 25 seconds remaining to put the Pistons ahead, effectively shutting down any hopes for the Lakers.

Following a missed possession, the Lakers intentionally fouled, allowing Jenkins to extend the Pistons’ lead to three points with two made free throws.

Luka Doncic (32 points, shooting 11-of-29, with seven rebounds and six assists) failed to sink a potential game-winning 3-pointer at the buzzer after some chaotic moments during the final play.

“I was trying to see the whole thing, but also look beyond Maxi and the others,” James explained, reflecting on the erratic end to the game.

Reaves put up 24 points and dished out five assists, while James went scoreless in the first half for only the third time in his NBA career but ultimately wrapped up the night with 12 points, ten assists, and nine rebounds.

Deandre Ayton recorded a double-double with 13 points and 10 rebounds as the Lakers played without Marcus Smart and Rui Hachimura.

Implications of the Game

This defeat marked the end of the Lakers’ nine-game winning streak, bringing their season record to 46-26 after the road trip loss.

Key Moment

With 2:39 left in the game, Luke Kennard was fouled while shooting a 3-pointer. His made free throws helped tie things up at 105 and momentarily slowed down the Pistons’ momentum.

But ultimately, the Pistons emerged victorious.

Player of the Game: Danis Jenkins

Jenkins, stepping in for injured All-Star Cade Cunningham, had a phenomenal game with a career-high 30 points. He shot 11 of 18 from the field, including 4 of 5 from beyond the arc, while also contributing eight assists and four rebounds.

Game Stats: Turnovers

The Lakers recorded eight turnovers in the fourth quarter alone after having just five in the first three quarters. While they shot better overall during the final period, mistakes limited their scoring chances.

“If you don’t make a shot and then turn the ball over, it really hurts,” Redick noted.

Looking Ahead

The Lakers will wrap up their six-game series against the Pacers on Wednesday.