Pistons steal a W from the Washington Wizards
By Mike Riina
The Pistons win at home against the Washington Wizards in a dominant performance. Pistons outscore Wizards 32-17 in third quarter.
The Pistons shot 49 percent in getting their 5th win in 6 games tonight. This time against the Washington Wizards who generally have had their number of late.
The last minute news was that Blake Griffin suffered an ankle contusion and wouldn’t play. Per Stan Van Gundy in his post game presser, they sent him immediately for an MRI and there’s been no word yet. He came out for warm ups and tried to go but couldn’t.
The Wizards of course were still without star John Wall. Otto Porter also went down in this game and did not return. No news on his injury yet.
Detroit all star Andre Drummond had 24 points, 23 rebounds and 4 blocks to lead the home team. He was 10-16 on the night, and 4-7 from the line.
A dominant performance. Reggie Jackson looked good as well putting up 13 points and 8 assists.
It was nice to see the “Reggie and Andre” show again. It’s certainly been a while.
Henry Ellenson got some rare playing time and added 9 points and 5 boards, making his only 3 point attempt.
Reggie Bullock and Anthony Tolliver continued their individual hot shooting and each added 14 points as well.
It was a balanced and well spaced offense for the team tonight. The defense also played pretty well especially in the third quarter, outscoring Washington 32 to 17. The Pistons were making mostly good rotations and limiting the Wizards shooting especially from 3.
They were able to manage only 19 percent from beyond the arc for the entire game. Pistons weren’t much better at 29 percent but made enough threes to keep the Wizards defense honest.
The Pistons out rebounded the Wizards 44-43 although they did give up 12 offensive boards.
It was a pretty great overall effort and although the Pistons post season hopes are dim, they are still mathematically alive. Getting a couple wins in the next two games against the New York Knicks and Brooklyn Nets, plus a win against the Joel Embiid-less 76’s could have them closing in as the season winds down.