Timberwolves 91, Pistons 80
TIMBERWOLVES 91, PISTONS 80: Nikola Pekovic collected 23 points and nine rebounds as visiting Minnesota ended a 27-game April losing streak. Detroit has dropped two straight.
J.J. Barea chipped in 13 points and 12 assists and Anthony Randolph finished with 15 points and 10 boards for the Timberwolves, who snapped an 11-game losing streak overall and won their first April game since 2009.
Minnesota was battling for a playoff spot a month ago before injuries derailed the season. Kevin Love (concussion) has not played in five straight games and could be done for the season.
Both Barea and Pekovic spent some time on the bench with various injuries over the last month but looked healthy on Thursday, combining for 21 points in the first half as the Timberwolves ran up a big advantage. They shot 57 percent from the field before the break to take a 49-31 edge into the locker room.
The Pistons had their best game of the season on Tuesday, running the lead up to 50 points in a 116-77 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers. The last two nights have been the exact opposite.
After shooting 34.8 percent in a loss at Atlanta on Wednesday, Detroit shot 28.6 percent in the first half on Thursday and did not wake up until a 32-point fourth quarter made it close.
GAME NOTEBOOK: Tayshaun Prince scored 18 points to lead the Pistons. … Barea has scored in double figures in 10 consecutive games. … The Timberwolves finish up the schedule with two home games while Detroit has three more - two at home.