Detroit Pistons Set to Host Washington Wizards
The Detroit Pistons (22-21) are looking to right the ship on Friday night against the Washington Wizards (25-20).
Despite showing flashes of great basketball with wins against the Houston Rockets, San Antonio Spurs, and a blowout win against the Brooklyn Nets, the Detroit Pistons have struggled mightily since losing Reggie Jackson to injury, winning only three of their last seven.
Avery Bradley may be tapped to defend either John Wall or Bradley Beal, if healthy.
Per Rod Beard of the Detroit Free Press:
"#Pistons SVG says Avery Bradley is “50/50” for tomorrow vs. #Wizards after getting an injection in Philadelphia for his groin issue."
The Wizards have won six of their last ten and are expected to arrive healthy.
Former Miami Hurricane, Sheldon Mac (formerly Sheldon McClellan), is expected to be the only Wizard out with a torn Achilles.
The Pistons have been bitten by the injury bug lately. Jon Leuer (ankle), Stanley Johnson (hip), Avery Bradley (groin), and Luke Kennard (thumb) are all questionable as of Friday morning. Reggie Jackson (ankle) will not dress for action.
Key Match-Ups
Ish Smith vs. John Wall
It’s crystal clear that the advantage lies with John Wall here. Even if Bradley is in the game to guard him, Wall should easily outperform Smith.
Avery Bradley vs Bradley Beal
The advantage again lies with Washington. Bradley Beal is a deadly scorer, and with Bradley preoccupied with Wall, and Stanley Johnson fighting with his hip, the Pistons will be hard pressed to guard him.
This one could go either way. If Reggie Bullock plays like he did against the Hornets, the advantage lies with him. If Bullock plays like he did against the Raptors, however, Otto Porter will take this match up.
Tobias Harris vs Markieff Morris
Tobias Harris should take the cake here, unless his cold streak from Wednesday carries over, where he shot 30 percent. The Pistons are substantially more successful when he leads the team in shots, so hopefully he is the focus of the offense.
Andre Drummond vs Marcin Gortat
Andre Drummond should easily win the individual battle here. Drummond should do his usual work on the boards and score in the high teens. Expect it to be fun to watch.