PACERS ‘04 BRAWL STARTER NABBED FOR DRUNK DRIVING: The man who allegedly started the Pistons-Pacers “Malice in the Palace” can’t seem to stay out of trouble:

The DETROIT FREE PRESS reports that 42-year-old John Green was arrested for drunk driving last Saturday, after witnesses told police they saw his car on the road swerving erratically.

Green is better known for his throwing accuracy, as he was implicated as the Pistons fan who threw a beer at Indiana Pacer Ron Artest during a 2004 game. The shower of suds caused Artest to leap into the stands, starting a wild brawl that brought a black eye to the NBA, but made for great Sportscenter highlights.

Although he was found not guilty of the cup toss, Green was still charged with assault for punching Artest during the melee, and sentenced to 30 days in jail and two years probation.

But because of his impressive checkered past, Green’s latest legal louse-up could lead to 15 years of watching Rasheed Wallace & Co. from the prison TV room.

Next time, John, take a cab.