Detroit Pistons vs. Boston Celtics 2019-20 preview and prediction

How do the Pistons match up offensively?

Griffin and Drummond have had their way with the Celtics, even in losses. The point forward scored 22.5 points per game and grabbed 9.3 rebounds with a 55.4 true shooting percentage in last year’s four-game series.

Drummond averaged a double-double last year with 18.8 points and 14.3 rebounds per game while swatting 2 shots and swiping 2.3 steals per contest. He’s historically played well against the Celtics, including against a stout defensive center in Horford. Times should get easier matching up with Kanter in the paint.

Despite the frontcourt duo’s dominance against Boston, the Pistons lost the series. Boston has the advantage on the wing but Tony Snell is a reliable shooter that should help space the floor.

An upgraded bench with Derrick Rose and Markieff Morris should help, defensively in the frontcourt and offensively in the backcourt. Nevermind the fact that Luke Kennard had an impressive stat line with Griffin off the court last season.

But the wings will have to step up. It’s a tough ask with Jaylen Brown, Marcus Smart, Gordon Hayward, Jayson Tatum, etc. consistently rolling into the lineup.

As was the case in most games last season, Detroit struggled to connect on 3-point shots. It was no different in the series with Boston, likely due to the wing depth. This year can be different.

With Rose, Kennard and Morris, the second unit should be improved. Morris can play a small-ball center position since the Celtics only have three players – Robert Williams, Kanter and Fall – who are 6-foot-10, or taller. That should create opportunities to space the floor and get clean looks.