The Trail Blazers once again had Damian Lillard to thank for securing a win away from home that was never in jeopardy. In doing so, they bring head coach Chauncey Billups a successful return to his old place of work.
The 2004 Finals MVP received a standing ovation at Little Caesars Arena: “Even though this isn’t the building I played in, it’s still home,” said Billups, who was once at The Palace of Auburn Hills played for the Pistons. “It’s always fun, no matter how it ends. It’s honestly just another game for me as a coach, but it means a lot more to me to see everyone again.”
Lillard started hot and scored 16 points in the first quarter, leading his team to a 31-18 lead they couldn’t give up. The Pistons gave their fans renewed hope and reduced their lead to 4 points with 1:39 left, but a three by Jerami Grant ended the comeback.
Lillard led the Blazers with 31 points and had his second triple double of the season (13 REB, 12 AST), his third in a career. Grant got 26 points. The Pistons had seven players in double digits, but none broke the 20-point mark. Best scorer was Isaiah Livers with 17 points, Jaden Ivey had 13 assists (13 PTS).
