What an incredible start to the 2015-16 NBA season for the Detroit Pistons!
No one could have objectively predicted them to start the year 3-0, while facing 3 projected playoff teams in the Hawks, Jazz, and Bulls. What makes the start even more impressive is that those three teams they have beaten are a combined 8-0 against all other teams they have faced.
"What makes the start even more impressive is that the 3 teams they have beaten are a combined 8-0 against all other teams they have faced"
The Pistons will be facing a very familiar opponent on Tuesday night in division foe, Indiana. The Pacers have experienced a lot of change over the past several months as they have sought to reinvent their style of play this past season. Compound that with the changes the Pistons have been making over the last 18 months, and we are left with many unknowns as to how this game will be played.
Key questions to consider:
What position will Paul George play? The Pacers have been mixing George in as a stretch four, as well as his native position, small forward. This was all a part of their experiment to play faster this year as their youth and athleticism dictates.
Can the Pistons defend Paul George? The Pistons tried defending George with Ersan Ilyasova for much of the first quarter in their preseason game at the Palace last month, and it resulted in Paul George dropping 20 points in the first quarter alone. It’s safe to say the Pistons will need to rely on a full team effort to stop George.
Can the Pacers stop Andre Drummond? The 22-year old center has absolutely destroyed opponents on the glass this season, which is not a new sight for Piston fans. But he has taken large steps on the defensive end that have helped turn the Pistons into the team with the 6th best defensive rating in the league, according to nba.com. The big man’s presence will surely be felt on Tuesday night.
Can Indiana play better in the fourth quarter? There has been a consistent theme with the Pacers this year- play the opponent tight through three quarters and then completely unravel in the fourth quarter. They are sporting the league’s third worst fourth quarter differential at as they have been outscored by 8.7 points per game in the final period alone.
My Prediction:
There is no reason to believe the Pistons cannot handle the Indiana Pacers at home. I would not be surprised to see a close game through 3 quarters, but I believe the Pistons will pull away and secure a comfortable win at home to improve to 4-0.
103-94 Pistons
What’s your prediction Piston fans?