Detroit — The Pistons were able to use their small lineup to their advantage on Wednesday night against Rudy Gobert and the Minnesota Timberwolves.
However, Pistons coach Dwane Casey knew that strategy would be a challenge against Jonas Valanciunas and the New Orleans Pelicans.
Without Jalen Duren, Isaiah Stewart and Marvin Bagley III, the Pistons simply couldn’t overcome the size disadvantage and post presence of Valanciunas, who led the Pelicans to a 116-110 win at Little Caesars Arena on Friday night.
New Orleans led by 17, but the Pistons didn’t wither away. They came within four after Jaden Ivey threw down an explosive dunk, bringing the crowd and the Pistons’ bench to their feet.