"Charlie Villanueva has stepped up the intensity this season and it showed in the Pistons' 103-89 victory over Milwaukee on Friday night.

Villanueva had 15 points and eight rebounds, continuing his strong play this season.

Villanueva, who was dogged by injuries in 2009-10 and criticized by fans for his lackluster approach, has fought for loose balls and has shown a new zeal in defense.

"I'm not known for that -- (grabbing) loose balls," Villanueva said of his hustle against the Bucks. "But I was trying to win that game. I'm trying to win some games, man. Last year was a tough year for all of us. Now I'm doing whatever it takes to win.""