Daniss Jenkins has emerged as a key player for the Detroit Pistons, answering questions about the team’s depth in shot creation. The Pistons have faced concerns about relying too heavily on Cade Cunningham as their primary scorer. With Cunningham sidelined by a collapsed lung, Jenkins has demonstrated his ability to contribute significantly.
Jenkins’ Impact on the Pistons
Jenkins has been an unsung hero for the Pistons in the 2025-26 season. He’s appeared in 60 of Detroit’s 70 games, averaging 18.0 minutes per appearance. In limited minutes, the 24-year-old point guard has averaged 8.0 points, 3.2 assists, 2.0 rebounds, and 0.9 steals per game.
These numbers translate to 15.9 points, 6.5 assists, 3.9 rebounds, and 1.8 steals per 36 minutes. He also makes 1.8 three-point field goals per 36 minutes, shooting a respectable 36.1 percent.
Stepping Up in Cunningham’s Absence
When Cunningham exited the Pistons’ 130-117 win over the Washington Wizards after playing just five minutes, Detroit turned to Jenkins. He posted 15 points, seven assists, two rebounds, two steals, and a block in 21 minutes of action. In a rematch with the Wizards two days later, Jenkins stepped up once again with five assists, two rebounds and a block in a blowout win.
After a lackluster shooting game, Jenkins posted 22 points, eight assists, seven rebounds, and a steal in a 115-101 victory over the Golden State Warriors. It was the fourth 20-point game of the season for Jenkins, who had appeared in seven total NBA games before the 2025-26 campaign.
Looking Ahead
Jenkins’ emergence as a capable scorer and playmaker will be essential on multiple fronts. That includes helping to fill an undeniable void with Cunningham sidelined, as well as potentially alleviating pressure from the superstar himself come the playoffs. It remains to be seen how Jenkins’ minutes will be impacted by Cunningham’s eventual return, but he’s making a powerful case for a larger role moving forward.