Feb 27, 2026; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Detroit Pistons center Jalen Duren (0) drives to the basket between Cleveland Cavaliers centers Evan Mobley (4) and Jarrett Allen (31) in the first half at Little Caesars Arena. Mandatory Credit: Lon Horwedel-Imagn Images

'I’m Just Grinding' – Detroit Pistons Star Downplays Dominant Career Night in Overtime Victory Vs. Cleveland Cavaliers

Originally posted on Hardwood Heroics | By Jordan Samar | Last updated Feb 28, 2026 6:29 AM ET

Jalen Duren led the Detroit Pistons in scoring during their 122-119 overtime victory against the undermanned Cleveland Cavaliers on Friday evening. The first-time All-Star had 33 points, 16 rebounds, three assists, and three blocks on 11-for-19 shooting from the field and 11-for-15 shooting from the free throw line.

According to Coty M. Davis of The Detroit News, Duren became the first player in Detroit Pistons history to have at least 25 points and 10 rebounds in four straight games since Bob McAdoo did it in the 1980-81 campaign.

“I’m just grinding; just working on my game, trying to win games and do whatever I can to help my teammates,” Duren said of his performance. “This is where we need to be moving forward — playing Pistons Basketball for 48 minutes. I’m glad we got the win, but we cannot wait until the end to get things going. We need to put together a consistent game of playing our type of ball.”

“As long as we’re winning, I’m good. 25 and 10 with a bunch of losses isn’t going to feel the same. The number really don’t matter to me, I’m moreso about the wins. As long as we’re winning, I couldn’t care less,” he added.

Detroit Pistons News: Daniss Jenkins steps up after Cade Cunningham fouls out

Cade Cunningham notched his sixth foul after a late failed steal attempt on Jarrett Allen, and the Detroit Pistons had to lean on Daniss Jenkins to take over the point guard duties.

The 24-year-old guard forced overtime with his crucial free throws. Jenkins ultimately finished with eight points on 2-for-10 shooting from the field in 19 minutes of action.

“DJ’s had a lot of clutch moments in practice. He’s had clutch moments in the game, too, going back to Washington, winning us that game. When the ball’s in DJ’s hand, you can take a sigh of relief,” Ausar Thompson said of Jenkins.

This article first appeared on Hardwood Heroics and was syndicated with permission.

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