Detroit flipped a 19-point deficit against Phoenix while Memphis, LA and Philadelphia lit it up from deep.
Phoenix led by 19, and Detroit still won. The Pistons clawed back for a 109-107 preseason victory at Little Caesars Arena, flipping the script through aggressive defense, takeaways and a steady flow of free throws once the third quarter turned.
Memphis made the loudest statement, dropping 18 threes in a 132-123 win over Atlanta. A 49-26 second quarter broke the game open, even as Atlanta dominated the glass. The Lakers joined the long-range show: 20 threes and 29 assists carried them past Sacramento 127-103, and the Kings' work on the boards counted for little once turnovers piled up.
Philadelphia eased past New York 120-97 on the strength of outside shooting, sharp passing and timely stops, while Minnesota owned the paint and pulled away in the fourth to beat Milwaukee 116-97. Five games, one thread: October basketball is already being decided from deep.
BasketballTen lead changes, a 16-point Rīga run and a 13-3 rebound edge on the offensive end — Rostock's late free throws settle it at StadtHalle Rostock.
BasketballA 35-point night earned Tony Perkins a 10.0 elsewhere; our Pred1x Grade says 6.3, and Zach Copeland's 7.0 led the floor.
BasketballTwo in-form sides, a 3-2 recent series and three of the last five meetings decided by six points or fewer.
