Malik Monk’s 19 points helps lead the Charlotte Hornets past the Detroit Pistons
The Charlotte Hornets rebounded from their loss against the Boston Celtics in their preseason opener to beat the Detroit Pistons.
The Charlotte Hornets (1-1) were able to defeat the Detroit Pistons (0-1) as they completed their second-half comeback. This was the first ever game at the Little Caesars Arena for the Pistons. Charlotte rallied behind their rookies and bench players to get a come from behind win.
Nicolas Batum left the game early in the first quarter and didn’t return after suffering a left elbow sprain. It’s unclear how serious the injury is and how long the France international will be out. Treveon Graham (hamstring) and Michael Carter-Williams (knee procedure) each missed their second straight game as they continue to recover.
Turning point
Detroit led by as much as 20 points in the second half. Charlotte went on multiple runs in the third including 15-2 and 9-0. The Hornets outscored their opponents 33-16 in the third quarter and managed to fight there way back into the game. It was a close game throughout the fourth quarter but a vital stop by Frank Kaminsky as he stripped the ball from Tobias Harris sealed the game for the away team.
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Who stepped up
Charlotte’ first-round pick led the way with 19 points. Although he only shot 35.7% from the field, Malik Monk managed to lead the team in scoring. Jeremy Lamb continued his strong play by putting up a solid game with 18 points, four assists and three rebounds. Frank Kaminsky struggled with his outside shot going only 1-8 from three but he did score 13 points in this one.
Dwight Howard recorded a double-double with 12 points and 11 boards. Kemba Walker, Marvin Williams and Michael Kidd-Gilchrist all had 10 points on the night. Dwayne Bacon had a solid game and grabbed seven rebounds in only 12 minutes.
As for Detroit, Andre Drummond finished the game with 16 points to go along with 15 rebounds. Tobias Harris almost had a double-double as well with 13 points and nine boards. Avery Bradley (14), Jon Leuer (12), Henry Ellenson (10), Ish Smith (10) and Luke Kennard (10) rounded out the Pistons’ double-digit scorers.
Play of the Game:
Tweet of the Game:
Dwight Howard records his first double-double in a @hornets uniform: 12 points & 11 rebs. #BuzzCity
— Charlotte Hornets PR (@HornetsPR) October 5, 2017
"Quick Stings"
- The Hornets had seven players score in double-figures.
- This game included seven ties and three lead changes.
- Charlotte was outrebounded 47-41 on the glass.
- MKG was a team-high +12.
- Charlotte shot 43% (37-86) from the field and 28.9% (11-38) from three.
With the win, the Hornets improve to 1-1 on the preseason and are 1-0 against the Pistons ahead of their first regular-season meeting. These two teams will meet on opening night (October 18th) in Detroit.
Next: Five Hornets players to watch during the preseason
In their next game, the Hornets will travel to South Beach and take on their divisional rivals in the Miami Heat. Charlotte split the season series with Miami last year with each side winning two games. Steve Clifford’s side will look to make it two preseason wins in a row before heading home for their final two exhibition games.