Cade Cunningham received an offensive foul for knocking down Spurs guard Stephon Castle, prompting Johnson to push Cunningham. Pistons center Jalen Duren then pointed his finger in Johnson's face, leading to technical fouls for both players.
The Pistons hold the best record in the Eastern Conference, while the Victor Wembanyama-led Spurs trail only the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder in the West. Detroit will host Oklahoma City on Wednesday night.