Both teams played in Detroit (Auburn Hills for the Pistons) at the same time Friday night.

The New Jersey Devils skated with the Red Wings at Joe Louis Arena. They snarfed the first goal of the game in the first period. At the Palace, the Pistons held the Milwaukee Bucks. We traded them point guards a season ago, adding some spice to the match-up. Detroit maintained a lead after one quarter.

The Red Wings were outskating the Devils, and their efforts were cashed in right before the period ended. We scored twice in about thirty seconds to stun New Jersey with a 2-1 lead after one. Likewise, the Pistons went on an 8-2 run to close the half, going up 51-44 at the break.

Milwaukee took the lead in the third quarter as it winded down. Luckily, Brandon Jennings lit up his former team for three 3’s before the quarter closed, reclaiming the lead for Detroit. Meanwhile, the Red Wings went on a two goal tear to take their lead up to 4-1 going into the final period.

Both teams battled in their respective final frames. The Pistons maintained a small lead for most of the fourth quarter. The Devils scored right out of the gate to put some pressure back on us. It came down to the final minutes at the Palace, just like their last victory. Twice in a two-point game, Detroit responded with another basket. One was by Greg Monroe, the other Josh Smith on a putback. Smith’s steal in the final seconds also helped seal it.

For the Red Wings, it was a dominant display of sacrificing the body – we blocked twenty shots compared to New Jersey’s four. It was a refusal to allow another goal in the final minutes, stopping a power play with a pulled goalie. Jimmy Howard also saved some tough shots in the clutch for that 4-2 win.