Villanueva Comes Off Bench, Breaks Nose

Yesterday's surprising Pistons win over the Atlanta Hawks was about the only thing that went right for power forward Charlie Villanueva. John Kuester, Pistons Head Coach, announced that Villanueva would be coming off the bench in favor of veteran Jason Maxiell for defensive purposes. Then during the game, Villanueva was fouled and smashed his face right into teammate Ben Wallace's arm, breaking his nose.

Villanueva had nasal surgery this afternoon. He's considered day-to-day, and he'll be wearing a mask once he does return to the court. For the time being, Maxiell and rookie Jonas Jerebko will continue to start up front alongside Wallace until the Pistons can finally get all of their key players back from injury.

Steve St-Pierre
Sports Writer
In Play! Magazine
sstpierre@inplaymagazine.com

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