Pistons sneak by Mavericks in 113-106 OT win

The Pistons won a tough, overtime game at home against the Mavericks Friday night. The 113-106 win is their 25th at home this season.

The Pistons let the Dallas Mavericks take them down to the wire and then some Friday night.

They pulled away in overtime behind solid performances by everyone involved.

Reggie Jackson arguably his best game since returning from injury last month. Jackson finished with 24 points on 61 percent shooting, and added seven assists.

Andre Drummond had a stat-packed performance as always. Drummond scored 19 points and came down with 16 rebounds.

Without Blake Griffin in the lineup (ankle), Drummond took on a much more prominent role against the Mavericks. In addition to his points and rebounds, he had five assists, two blocks and a steal.

Drummond had a dynamite block against Dallas’ high flying Dennis Smith Jr.

Anthony Tolliver got the start in place of Griffin and took full advantage of the opportunity. Tolliver finished with 16 points and a 4-for-6 night from three.

Luke Kennard also made his way into the starting lineup against the Mavericks. Reggie Bullock was shut down for the season with a knee injury. Kennard finished with just two points in 27 minutes Friday night.

This game was close throughout as neither team could go on long enough runs to pull away. There were 20 lead changes throughout and a missed shot from Jackson at the buzzer sent the game into overtime.

However, the Pistons only allowed the Mavericks to score five points in OT.

Despite the struggles of Dennis Smith Jr. (seven points) and Harrison Barnes (46 percent shooting), the Mavericks had a strong night from Baylor’s Johnathon Motley. Motley finished with game-high 26 points and added 12 rebounds in the losing effort.

The Pistons head will travel to Memphis to face the Grizzlies on Sunday. Stan Van Gundy still has a chance to finish the season without a losing record.