Reality quickly set in for the Charlotte Hornets as their two-game winning streak was followed by arguably their worst loss this season. They had no answer for the Detroit Pistons' physicality, a problem that had already been apparent before Saturday. And if the Hornets cannot find a solution for it anytime soon, it's tough to expect them to take the leap toward legitimate contention.
The Pistons showed their might on Saturday, completing a dominant 112-86 win to strengthen their hold on first place in the Eastern Conference standings. However, Charlotte managed to keep it close until late in the first half, taking a 45-42 lead, before the opponent put up 13 unanswered points to finish the second quarter.