Horford's big game leads Hawks over Pistons

"We just have to keep trying to play well and try to win as many games as we can," Horford said. "Our stretch only gets tougher. We're not trying to look ahead, but we know what our schedule is."

The Pistons were already without rookie big man Andre Drummond, who has a stress fracture in his back, and losing Knight and Bynum only made matters worse.

The Hawks were without Zaza Pachulia because of an Achilles strain, but they shot 55 percent in the first half, including 7 of 16 from 3-point range. Horford already had 13 points and 13 rebounds by halftime.

"We got out and ran. Defensively we did some good things," Atlanta coach Larry Drew said. "The start of the third quarter we really got it going. The third quarter I thought really set the tone for the rest of the game."

Horford's shot from the baseline in the third made it 76-58, and Frank took his second timeout of the quarter. It was no use. A 3-pointer by Smith pushed the lead to 24, and Teague's two free throws made it 86-60.

The Pistons cut the deficit to 14 and had the ball midway through the fourth quarter, but Teague's steal and layup made it 97-81.

Near the end, Horford capped his terrific game with a 3-pointer from around the top of the key — his first of the season and fourth of his career.

NOTES: Korver has made a 3-pointer in 49 consecutive games. ... Horford also had 22 rebounds against Miami on Feb. 27, 2009.