Pistons notch easy win, gain ground in playoff race

Jan 4, 2016; Auburn Hills, MI, USA; Detroit Pistons guard Reggie Jackson (right) and center Andre Drummond (middle) celebrate from the bench during the fourth quarter against the Orlando Magic at The Palace of Auburn Hills. Pistons win 115-89. Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 4, 2016; Auburn Hills, MI, USA; Detroit Pistons guard Reggie Jackson (right) and center Andre Drummond (middle) celebrate from the bench during the fourth quarter against the Orlando Magic at The Palace of Auburn Hills. Pistons win 115-89. Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports

The Pistons started out the game scorching the nets and pulled away to an early 30-12 lead. But the Magic were making all the hustle plays and dominated for much of the game on both second chances and fast breaks. As the Pistons’ shooting cooled down a bit, the Magic made several runs to make a real game of it. However, late in the third quarter and on into the fourth, the Pistons started to match and even exceed the Magic’s energy and ultimately pulled back away to an easy win.

Coupled with losses by the Wizards and Bulls, this win should do wonders for the Pistons’ playoff odds. Expect them to be back near and maybe even above a 50/50 shot by most projections tomorrow.

On another note, Blaha really needs to learn how to read names. I understand that “Hezonja” isn’t exactly a common name in this country. But it clearly doesn’t have an “r” in it. Listening to him talk about “Herzonja” repeatedly got so annoying that I had to switch to the Magic broadcast. He’s not in the template, but he gets an honorary “F” tonight.