Pistons conclude trip with battle vs. Warriors

Detroit lost the first two games of the west coast swing before putting together an impressive 97-83 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers on Friday. Tayshaun Prince scored 18 third-quarter points and tied a career best with 31 to pace the Pistons.

Chauncey Billups added 21 points and nine assists for Detroit, while Rasheed Wallace donated 15 points and seven rebounds to the winning effort.

The Warriors have alternated wins and losses through the first six games of their 2006-07 campaign. Golden State kicked off its current seven-game homestand on a good note, posting a 121-116 victory over previously unbeaten New Orleans/Oklahoma City on Thursday.

Baron Davis poured in 36 points and dished out nine assists, while Monta Ellis finished with 21 points for the Warriors, who avenged Tuesday’s 97-93 defeat to the Hornets. Troy Murphy added 20 points and six rebounds and Mickael Pietrus contributed 18 points to the winning effort.

Ellis started in place of Jason Richardson, who sat out the contest after experiencing stiffness in his surgically-repaired right knee. The standout guard, who has led the Warriors in scoring in each of the last three seasons, is questionable to return tonight.

Detroit could be without one of its top scorers as well. Shooting guard Richard Hamilton missed Friday’s game with a hyperextended right elbow and is listed as day-to-day. Ronald Murray replaced Hamilton in the starting lineup against the Lakers and contributed 10 points and four rebounds.

The Pistons will begin a string of three straight home games Wednesday against New Orleans/Oklahoma City.

Detroit brings a five-game win streak over the Warriors into tonight’s matchup. Golden State’s last victory in the series came on November 12, 2003, when the Warriors pulled out an 87-85 overtime decision at home.

The Pistons have also won their last two in Oakland after losing four consecutive games to Golden State as the road team.