Pistons outscore Wizards despite 44-point performance from Davis.
The Detroit Pistons continued their strong start to the season Monday night, defeating the Washington Wizards 122-111. Detroit used a powerful second and third quarter to overcome a 30-point first half and 44-point total individual performance from Washington’s Anthony Davis, holding onto the lead for the majority of the game.
The Pistons improved to 7-3 on the season, while the Wizards dropped to 4-7 after suffering their fourth consecutive loss.
John Collins delivered one of his best performances of the season, finishing with 24 points and 10 rebounds to lead Detroit. Collins provided an important presence inside, attacking the basket, controlling rebounds, and giving the Pistons a reliable scoring option, the exact reason he was brought to Detroit.
Daniss Jenkins also played a major role in the victory. After scoring a career-high 31 points against the Los Angeles Lakers on Sunday, Jenkins continued his impressive stretch by recording 22 points and eight assists.
Jenkins’ ability to create offense and find teammates helped Detroit establish control, particularly during the third quarter.
Duncan Robinson contributed 22 points, giving Detroit another valuable scoring option. His shooting helped stretch Washington’s defense.
Despite the loss, Davis was spectacular for Washington. Davis finished with 44 points and 13 rebounds, dominating offensively throughout much of the evening.
Davis entered the contest as a game-time decision because of an ankle issue but showed little hesitation once the game began.
He scored 30 points in the first half alone, shooting 10-of-11 from the field and making both of his three-point attempts.
Trae Young added 20 points and seven assists, while rookie AJ Dybantsa contributed 21 points and eight rebounds.
The game was close early, with Washington holding a narrow 32-31 advantage after the opening quarter.
Detroit responded in the second quarter, outscoring the Wizards 37-26 to take a 68-58 halftime lead.
The Pistons continued their momentum after the break, shooting an impressive 63.2% from the field in the third quarter. Jenkins scored 13 points in the period as Detroit extended its advantage to 103-87.
Cade Cunningham also contributed despite dealing with foul trouble. Cunningham picked up his fifth personal foul in the third quarter and did not return until midway through the fourth.
Washington won the fourth quarter 24-19, but the comeback attempt came too late. The same two teams play again Thursday in Washington, D.C.