Game Preview: Detroit Pistons vs. Denver Nuggets
By Dan Feldman
Essentials
Date: Dec. 9, 2009
Time: 7:30 p.m.
Television: Fox Sports Detroit
Records
Detroit: 9-12
Denver: 16-6
Probable starters
Detroit:
Chucky
AtkinsRodney
StuckeyJonas
JerebkoJason
MaxiellBen
Wallace
Denver:
Chauncey
BillupsArron
AfflaloCarmelo
AnthonyJoey
GrahamNene
Las Vegas projection
Spread: Detroit +7
Over/under: 198.5
Score: Denver wins, 103-96
Statistical projection
Detroit offensive rating: 105.7 (21st)
Detroit defensive rating: 107.5 (19th)
Detroit pace: 87.4 (30th)
Denver offensive rating: 113.5 (2nd)
Denver defensive rating: 105.9 (14th)
Score: Denver wins, 101-97
Outlook
The Pistons have won three in a row, but their opponents in those games are a combined 22-40. Denver presents a real test to see if Detroit has figured out how to succeed without Richard Hamilton and Tayshaun Prince.
And, of course, Chauncey Billups returns to the Palace again. That won’t make anything easier for Detroit.
Kenyon Martin will miss the game with a dislocated pinkie finger, according to The Denver Post’s Benjamin Hochman.
For the first time in quite a while, I’ll be sitting on my couch, relaxing and watching the game. So, I’ll be chatting on Daily Dime Live during the game. So, check it out.