Game Recap: Pistons Earn Ugly Win Over Mavs to Avoid Embarassment

The Detroit Pistons have defeated the Dallas Mavericks 95-85 in what was a sloppy offensive game throughout, especially in the first half for Detroit.

The Pistons had 8 turnovers in the first quarter and 13 in the first half, an unusual amount as Detroit leads the league in fewest turnovers. Andre Drummond did have a game high 17 rebounds, but had a minimal impact on offense with only 3 points, as his teammates refused to give him looks in the post. Stanley Johnson regained his spot in the rotation, scoring 7 points in 14 minutes.

The catalysts for the Pistons in tonight's win included Jon Leuer, who continues to make his case for sixth man of the year, putting up 19 and 5 on incredibly efficient 8-9 shooting. Aron Baynes had a great game off the bench, especially late in the 4th when Drummond was intentionally fouled and taken out of the game as a result, putting up 8 and 10. Reggie Jackson AKA Mr. Fourth Quarter came in clutch as kept the pesky Mavs from making a late run with clutch free throws and buckets when the team needed them.  Harrison Barnes and Deron Williams were the lone double digit scorers for Dallas tonight, as Barnes put 19 on 9-18 shooting and Williams had 16, mostly due to his 9-9 free throw shooting.

The Pistons finished off a must win game against one of the worst records in the league, pushing their record above .500 at 14-13, as they take on Washington on Friday.

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