The Detroit Pistons have made a strategic shift, moving guard Daniss Jenkins from a two-way contract to a full two-year NBA deal as the team prepares for the latter part of the season. With Jenkins hitting the two-way contract game limit, his standout performance demanded a deserved upgrade, confirmed by a source to the Free Press. The specifics of the contract, which include a team option for 2026-27 and consume a portion of the Pistons' $10.5 million bi-annual exception, have not been disclosed.
As Jenkins was bumped up, big man Dario Saric found himself on the other end, waived by the Pistons post-acquisition in a trade that also brought Kevin Huerter into the fold. Saric's stint with the team was so brief, having not played a game for Detroit before being requested waivers on. ESPN's Shams Charania was the first to report on Jenkins' deal, with the move eventually requiring room cleared on the roster, according to MLive.
Jenkins, a once undrafted player out of St. John's in 2024, has established himself as an effective piece on the Pistons' squad, prompting the front office's decision. Pistons president of basketball operations Trajan Langdon, before a game against the Knicks, acknowledged Jenkins' ascent, stating, "When the opportunities come he’s taken advantage of it.” His feelings were echoed in a statement by head coach J.B. Bickerstaff, as reported by Detroit Free Pass. With averages of 8.2 points and 3.3 assists and a strong 39.1% shooting from three-point range, Jenkins has certainly made a case for his newly acquired contract status.
Jenkins, during an emotional reflection on his journey to this point and detailing the circumstances of his contract upgrade, told ClickOnDetroit, "I just know there was no difference between me and the guys that got drafted. I carry a big chip on my shoulder. I knew from the first summer league that I was an NBA player," his mentality fueling his determination to succeed despite initial setbacks in his career. Capitalizing on this, Jenkins had 18 points in a recent command performance against New York, proving his value past the limitations of his former two-way contract and into a pivotal role for Detroit.
The pivotal guard's next opportunity to showcase his talent under the new contract will be when the Pistons take on the Charlotte Hornets. Fans and analysts alike will keenly watch Jenkins' performance as the season progresses, with much anticipation surrounding the Detroit Pistons' postseason prospects. His narrative is not just one of personal triumph but also a testament to perseverance in professional sports, where the route to success is more akin to a marathon rather than a sprint.
