The Detroit Pistons might not have a shot at the postseason in the Eastern Conference at this point, but are beginning to grow accustomed to their role of spoiler, and are playing the NBA-leading Chicago Bulls very tough after two quarters on Sunday.
The Pistons took control of the game midway through the second quarter, but Chicago used a 14-4 run to close the half and snatch a 49-41 lead. Chicago star Derrick Rose, who is playing in his first game back after his latest ankle injury, is 4-for-8 shooting with eight points and two assists for the Bulls, and doesn't appear to be limited by the injury.
Sixth man Charlie Villanueva has been a big key for the Pistons off the bench with 11 points on 5-for-9 shooting. Detroit guards Brandon Knight and Rodney Stuckey have each been far from efficient, and have combined to shoot just 3-for-9 from the field with three turnovers. It will be up to Detroit's big men in the second half to turn the tide, as the Bulls hauled down eight offensive rebounds (six by Joakim Noah) and have routinely picked up second chance opportunities.
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