Jan 31, 2015; Auburn Hills, MI, USA; Detroit Pistons forward Greg Monroe (10) gets a rebound next to center Andre Drummond (0) during the second quarter at The Palace of Auburn Hills. Houston Rockets forward Josh Smith (5) in background. Mandatory Credit: Raj Mehta-USA TODAY Sports
Detroit Pistons
Record: 19-31
First Half Highlight: Cutting Josh Smith
Analysis: The Detroit Pistons, like many teams in the Eastern Conference, began the season with much promise. Then they realized that Josh Smith was still Josh Smith, which resulted in the team lacking positive chemistry on the court and losses on paper.
Right before Christmas however, Stan Van Gundy decided something needed to be done. He cut Josh Smith. Since then, the Pistons have been one of the better teams in the Eastern Conference.
After starting the season with a 5-23 record, Detroit have reeled off 14 wins in their last 21 games. The Pistons crawled their way back into playoff contention. Although, a season-ending injury to Brandon Jennings is going to threat their ability to close the season as productive as their last 21 games have been.
Grade: C+
Next: Golden State Warriors