Atlanta — Blake Griffin has been the Pistons’ anchor all season, leading them in scoring and representing them in the All-Star Game.
No Blake Griffin — big problem.
The Pistons lost their All-Star when he was ejected in the third quarter for getting his second technical foul. The Pistons had to play on without him and had one of their most spirited spurts of the season.
That propelled the Pistons to a thrilling 125-122 victory over the Atlanta Hawks on Friday night at State Farm Arena. The win helped the Pistons (27-30) keep pace with the Charlotte Hornets, who are a half-game behind for eighth place in the East.