Detroit’s stunning surge: Pistons enter post-All-Star play with the NBA’s best record

The Detroit Pistons had the worst record in franchise history at the All-Star break four years ago. When the NBA starts post-All-Star play on Thursday, the Pistons — a franchise that last won a playoff series in 2008 — will start the night with the best record in the league, a smidge ahead of the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder. Detroit is 40-13, Oklahoma City 42-14.

By TIM REYNOLDS