The Detroit Pistons handled the Cleveland Cavaliers at home tonight, winning 113-102. Although the margin of victory was smaller than expected, the Pistons pulled out the win and that’s what matters.
Earlier today, I wrote an article regarding three keys to a Detroit Pistons’ victory. Overall, the Pistons played three great quarters and an okay fourth quarter.
Dwane Casey tried sitting his starters for most of the final period, but after Cleveland opened up the fourth on an 11-2 run, he had to put them back in to close the game.
Let’s see how my three keys to the game translated.
1. Limiting turnovers
The Pistons did a great job limiting turnovers in this game compared to their season average. Tonight they only turned it over 10 times, while their season average is 15.0 per game.
On the flip side, they only caused nine Cleveland turnovers.
2. Defensive efficiency
Their plus/minus tonight was +11.0 as a team which is great considering their season average before this game which was negative. The Pistons showed the true Detroit defense but it came with a price.
Detroit had 27 total fouls during tonight’s game which is higher than their season average of 25.0.
It seemed as though the referees were calling everything as the Pistons also received four technical fouls.
They’re currently leading the league with 15 total technical fouls this season. A leading stat they should not be proud of.
Jose Calderon received his first of the season to a dismay by commentators and fans alike.
3. Outside shooting
Shooting the three proved to be effective tonight as the Pistons knocked down 13 of 38 attempts (34.2%). The two Reggie’s led the team with Reggie Bullock shooting 5-for-7 behind the arc and Reggie Jackson going 3-for-6.
Detroit travels to Houston to face the Rockets for their next game Wednesday night at 8 p.m. on Fox Sports Detroit.