DETROIT — With a 114-105 triumph over the 76ers Friday evening, the Eastern Conference-leading Pistons expanded their victorious run to nine consecutive contests, marking their most extended sequence since the 2007-08 season.
The Pistons (11-2) competed without the services of All-NBA guard Cade Cunningham for the second successive game, sidelined by a bruised hip sustained in a fall Monday evening, in addition to starters Jalen Duren (ankle), Tobias Harris (ankle), and Ausar Thompson (ankle).
Guard Jaden Ivey remains absent, yet to make his season appearance as he recuperates from a knee procedure conducted during the preseason. Isaiah Stewart marked his return after a three-game absence due to a sprained ankle incurred against the Brooklyn Nets, contributing 14 points and securing seven rebounds in 23 minutes of play.
The Pistons restricted the 76ers to a mere 15 points during the fourth quarter, having previously trailed by 12 points in the third. Coach J.B. Bickerstaff indicated that the team is approaching the NBA Cup with considerable seriousness.
“I’m not caught off guard. They possess a certain grittiness,” Bickerstaff stated. “That’s what’s enjoyable about our group. They thrive when conditions become challenging. They enjoy when situations become messy and demanding. We are inclined to lead others into those conditions. We aim to provoke individuals and observe their responses.”
“We’ve got a collection of tenacious competitors within that locker room, and they embrace the challenge.”
In Cunningham’s stead, guard Daniss Jenkins, presently under a two-way contract, executed a buzzer-beating three-point shot from beyond the half-court line to conclude the third quarter, revitalizing the Pistons and narrowing the deficit to two points.
This marked one of their season-high 17 three-pointers, achieving a shooting accuracy rate exceeding 41%.
Subsequently, they seized control in the fourth quarter, overcoming the 76ers twice within the preceding six days.
Jenkins concluded the game with 19 points and eight assists in 35 minutes, engaging in a spirited exchange with All-Star guard and fellow Dallas native Tyrese Maxey (31 points, seven rebounds).
The 76ers also played without Joel Embiid (right knee soreness) and Paul George, who is still recovering from left knee surgery.
Jenkins also converted a corner 3-pointer to propel Monday’s contest against the Washington Wizards into overtime. He amassed 24 points on Monday, and in Wednesday’s game against Chicago, he recorded 18 points and provided 12 assists.
“I’m not going to be dishonest. I’m unable to reveal my recipe (secret), but I’ve devoted considerable practice to executing that particular shot,” Jenkins remarked. “We are all aggressive contenders, tenacious individuals.”
The Pistons will pursue their tenth consecutive victory on Monday at home against the Indiana Pacers, who share the distinction of possessing the poorest record in the Eastern Conference.
