Detroit Pistons travel to Atlanta looking to break 7 game skid
By Ash Vanclay
The Detroit Pistons head to Atlanta to take on the Atlanta Hawks, looking to break a 7 game losing streak. The Detroit Pistons look like the shell of a team that started the season really well and got themselves to second in the East. They look as if they are lacking in confidence after struggling in their toughest part of their season’s schedule.
The Detroit Pistons have the opportunity to turn things around in Atlanta after beating them in their last meeting. In that game Andre Drummond finished with 16 points, 20 rebounds, 7 assists and 2 blocks in one of his best performances of the season.
The longer this losing streak continues, the more difficult it will be to break. The Detroit Pistons have a solid chance against the Atlanta Hawks but it will depend on a few things.
The Atlanta Hawks will be without usual starter Dewayne Dedmon, and Mike Muscala both due to injury, however in positive news for the Hawks: rookie John Collins, and Luke Babbitt have been upgraded to probable and will likely feature in the game.
Piston Powered Keys to the game:
Backcourt Defense
The Atlanta Hawks are in the top half of the league for guard scoring and hence generate a lot of their offense through these players. If the Detroit Pistons can slow down those guards, they will be in with a shot at winning the game. Particularly slowing down Dennis Schroder and Kent Bazemore, the Detroit starting backcourt looks to have its hands full.
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Looking after the ball
Turnovers. The Detroit Pistons need to do a much better job at looking after the ball. In their most recent game, they managed nine turnovers in the first quarter alone. They need to look after the ball much better. If they can stop turning the ball over, it also flows into their defence as it can force opposing teams into a half court offense where Detroit can have its defence set and ready to play.
The battle of the big men
Andre Drummond has an opportunity for a huge game with Dedmon out, and Atlanta likely to start 6’9 rookie Tyler Cavanaugh. Andre Drummond won the matchup last time they played (against Dedmon) and that was a huge reason why the Detroit Pistons were able to win the game. Andre pulled down 20 rebounds, including 10 offensive rebounds! When Andre can establish himself early it pulls defenses in, giving him the opportunity to kick the ball out and find open shooters.