The Pistons Go Wild Against The Grizzlies

The Pistons got off to a slow start against the Grizzlies Friday night. In fact, both teams shot poorly in the first quarter. The Grizzlies shot 32%, while the Pistons shot 36%.

The Pistons still managed to lead by 9 in the first, but the Grizzlies cut their lead down to 3. The Pistons led 18-21 going into the second, but the Grizzlies had a 15-2 run and was up by 4 at half-time. The Grizzlies led 42-38.

It seemed like it was going to be a long disastrous night, until the Pistons came out of the Locker Room blazing in the second half. They were dunking, blocking, getting steals and rebounding like crazy.

They had a 14 point lead at the end of the third quarter. They led 54-68. In the fourth quarter the Pistons lead just kept growing, as their suffocating defense got better and better. Yes, The Grizzlies were minced meat by then.

Rookie Aaron Afflalo was a defensive monster. He was attacking at all angles, driving to the basket, drawing fouls, getting steals, you name it. He finished with a career high 12 points, 5 rebounds and a steal.

Chauncey Billups and Rip Hamilton had points each. Tayshaun Prince had 16.

Now for some interesting stats. The Pistons had a carrer high 16 steals. They also had 5 blocked shots, led by as many as 24 in the fourth, and beat the Grizzlies 94-67.

Rodney Stuckey finally made his debut this season after being out with a broken hand. He entered the game in the fourth quarter, grabbed a rebound and scored immediately. Primoz Brezec also got a chance to play, as did Amir johnson.

Next opponent, The Houston Rockets, Sunday night at 6:00 on FSN.