Jalen Duren scored 24 points on 8-of-9 shooting as the Detroit Pistons defeated the Minnesota Timberwolves 128-106 in preseason action on Wednesday, October 14, at Target Center. Detroit improved to 2-1, while Minnesota fell to 3-2 after surrendering an early lead.
Duren added three rebounds, one assist, two steals and one block in just 15 minutes. He also went 8-of-8 from the free-throw line, delivering an efficient offensive performance that helped the Pistons take control after a difficult opening quarter.
Minnesota started strongly, scoring 38 points in the first period to take a 38-29 lead. Detroit responded emphatically in the second quarter, outscoring the Timberwolves 36-20 to move in front 65-58 at halftime.
Duren was central to the turnaround, repeatedly finishing inside. He scored on several dunks and alley-oop opportunities during the second quarter, including consecutive finishes assisted by Cade Cunningham as Detroit moved ahead.
The Pistons maintained their momentum after the break, adding 32 points in the third quarter while holding Minnesota to 24. Detroit entered the final period with a 97-82 advantage and extended the margin further in the fourth to secure a convincing 22-point victory.
Duncan Robinson contributed 15 points, six rebounds and four three-pointers, shooting 5-of-8 from the field and 4-of-5 from beyond the arc. John Collins added 11 points on 4-of-5 shooting, while Cunningham finished with 14 points and nine assists despite committing five turnovers.
Kevin Huerter also scored 14 points off the bench, and Isaiah Joe added 14 points in 20 minutes. Ronald Holland II contributed nine points, while Daniss Jenkins recorded six points and four assists.
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Detroit’s offensive efficiency proved decisive. The Pistons shot 57% from the field, made 11 of 25 three-point attempts and converted 27 of 33 free throws. They also collected 45 rebounds and recorded 11 steals.
Anthony Edwards led Minnesota with 20 points, shooting 5-of-15 from the field and making all nine of his free throws. Jonathan Kuminga added 16 points on 5-of-6 shooting, while Jaden McDaniels scored 12 points and grabbed six rebounds.
Joan Beringer and Ayo Dosunmu each added 10 points for the Timberwolves. LaMelo Ball finished with three points and six assists in 18 minutes, while Rudy Gobert recorded eight points and four rebounds.
Minnesota struggled to match Detroit’s shooting efficiency, connecting on just 38% of its field-goal attempts and 11 of 34 three-pointers. The Timberwolves also committed 20 turnovers, although Detroit had the same number.
