Advertisement

Detroit Pistons' Thon Maker denies Bobby Portis at rim

By Connor Grott
Former Milwaukee Bucks and current Detroit Pistons big Thon Maker appeared to lose a few teeth after a blocked shot against the Washington Wizards on Monday night. File Photo by Tannen Maury/EPA-EFE
Former Milwaukee Bucks and current Detroit Pistons big Thon Maker appeared to lose a few teeth after a blocked shot against the Washington Wizards on Monday night. File Photo by Tannen Maury/EPA-EFE

Feb. 12 (UPI) -- Detroit Pistons big man Thon Maker had a highlight-reel block in the team's victory over the Washington Wizards on Monday night.

Wizards guard Bradley Beal threw a bounce pass into the paint for forward Bobby Portis late in the first quarter. Portis took the pass and rose for a dunk.

Advertisement

Maker met Portis at the rim and denied the dunk attempt with a spectacular block, sending both players to the floor.

The 7-foot big man finished with five points and five stitches against Washington. Maker suffered a gash inside his mouth and appeared to lose a few teeth after Jordan McRae unintentionally headbutted him.

Maker blocked Portis' shot attempt and headed to the bench to receive medical treatment.

View this post on Instagram

STATEMENT. MAKER. #PistonsNow

Advertisement

A post shared by Detroit Pistons (@detroitpistons) on

"His energy [Monday] was unbelievable," Griffin told the team's official website. "He played just as hard in the second half. Gets five stitches, came back in and plays just as hard. Had a little collision going for a rebound with Dre, which is fun to see somebody finally contest Dre for a rebound. That attitude alone, that toughness, is a huge thing for us."

The Pistons acquired Maker from the Milwaukee Bucks in a three-team trade last week. Detroit sent Stanley Johnson to the New Orleans Pelicans in the deal.

Maker had four rebounds to go with his five points on 2-of-3 shooting and added his athletic block in 14 minutes of playing time.

Detroit's 121-112 win over the Wizards was its fourth consecutive victory. The Pistons (26-29) are No. 8 in the Eastern Conference.

Latest Headlines