Game Preview: Detroit at Houston
By Dan Feldman
When
Date: March 18, 2009
Time: 9:30 p.m.
Records
Detroit: 33-33
Houston: 44-25
Probable starters
Detroit:
Rodney
StuckeyRichard
HamiltonTayshaun
PrinceJason
MaxiellAntonio
McDyess
Houston:
Aaron
BrooksRon
ArtestShane
BattierLuis
ScolaYao
Ming
Las Vegas projection
Spread: Detroit +9
Over/under: 176
Score: Houston wins 93-84
Statistical projection
Detroit offensive rating: 106.7
Detroit defensive rating: 107.3
Detroit pace: 87.1
Houston offensive rating: 108.1
Houston defensive rating: 103.9
Houston pace: 90.7
Score: Houston wins 96-94
Outlook
Richard Hamilton and Yao Ming are both questionable with injuries, so there’s plenty of room for swing here.
The Rocketes are one the league’s best defensive teams, but the smallish Aaron Brooks is a weak spot. Rodney Stuckey must take advantage, especially if Hamilton is out.