The Detroit Pistons are off to a much better start to the 2024-25 season than their previous season, with their undefeated record against a franchise playing a minor role.

Detroit defeated the Los Angeles Lakers in a nail-biting 117-114 win on Monday, snapping a two-game winning streak. Lakers forward LeBron James had a chance to send the ball into overtime, but he missed a game-winning three-pointer in the final seconds.

Pistons guard Cade Cunningham led Detroit to victory with 20 points and 10 assists.

After their win, the Pistons saw an opportunity for a stoppage win against the Lakers, as the victory gave the franchise a two-game winning streak on the season.

Raise your hand if you beat the Lakers this season 🙋‍♂️

— Detroit Pistons (@DetroitPistons) December 24, 2024

In the first meeting against Los Angeles, Jaden Ivey’s 26 points and Cunningham’s triple-double – 17 points, 11 rebounds and 11 assists – led to a 115-103 win at Little Caesars Arena in November.

According to ESPN Research, this is the first time the Pistons have defeated the Lakers since the 2016-17 season.

Detroit finished last season with just 14 wins, but the win over the Lakers increases their win tally to 13.