The Thunder was without superstars Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook last night, as they found themselves in a close game against the visiting Pistons. Detroit had opened its season with a 2-6 record, but managed to get another tally in the win column against OKC Friday night. The Stan Van Gundy era, although off to a slow start as far as wins are concerned, has made an impact on this team. They have improved in every defensive category, as well as shooting the deep ball on offense effectively. The new head-man made it a priority in the offseason to surround talented players, such as Andre Drummond and Greg Monroe with shooters by adding veteran Caron Butler, as well as Jodie Meeks, Cartier Martin, and D.J. Augustin.

However, in the past few games, it has been the team's point guard Brandon Jennings, who was berated over the summer for poor shot selection and inconsistent play, who has led the way. The Pistons have been competitive in every one of their games, and almost pulled out wins against two of the top teams in their conference, Washington and Chicago. In the past three games, Jennings has scored a combined 72 points, and even had a double-double against the Wizards with 10 assists. Van Gundy helped a point guard who had a similar run and gun reputation in Jameer Nelson while with Orlando, so perhaps he can help elevate Jennings' overall game as well.

Greg Monroe added 14 points and nine rebounds of his own, while Smith scored 18. Josh Smith, often criticized for shooting the ball too many times and throwing off the shot distribution of the team, managed to shoot 50 percent, going 8-for-16 from the floor. Jonas Jerebko provided a nice spark off the pine with 12 points and two steals, as he is gradually becoming a steady part of the rotation for Detroit.

Reggie Jackson and Jeremy Lamb had to step in for the missing Thunder starters, and both did well in this game. Lamb had 24 points and 10 boards, while Jackson notched 20 points and 12 helpers. While this young duo played well, some other members of the team failed to step up for OKC. Anthony Morrow missed seven of his nine three-point attempts, and Sebastian Telfair failed to hit a shot off the bench. With the clock winding down in the fourth quarter, Reggie Jackson found a decent look by backing down Jennings and putting a fade away jumper from about 13 feet. However, it barely missed, and the game was headed to overtime, tied at 82 apiece. In the extra period, Brandon Jennings sank two crucial three pointers before a Greg Monroe tip in to put the Thunder away for good.

The Pistons will take on the Grizzlies on Monday, November 17, at 8:00 PM EST. The Thunder will host the Houston Rockets Sunday at 7:00 PM EST.