Detroit Pistons vs. Boston Celtics 2019-20 preview and prediction
Be better defensively
It’s as simple as that. Of the four factors – effective field goal percentage, turnover rate, offensive rebounding rate and free throws-per-field goal-attempt – the Celtics seemed to dominate most categories. That’s what the Pistons need to key on.
Just like when the Pistons are on offense, they’ll have to be better defensively with the second unit. Detroit needs to have intent to get in passing lanes and take away dribble-drive penetration. They also need to close out on shooters and make life difficult for them.
Related Story. Breaking down potential Pistons rotations in 2019-20. light
Matchups will be interesting. Brown should draw the assignment of Walker, who will likely see several defenders throughout each game. As the top on-ball defender, Brown will need to disrupt the flow of the Celtics offense as much as possible.
How Brad Stevens chooses to match up with his starting unit and rotations will be intriguing. It would seem logical to bring Smart off the bench to handle backup point guard opportunities. Perhaps Purdue product Carsen Edwards is ready to run the second unit.
The length and ability of the Celtics wings could make it easier to create mismatches against the Pistons’ bench. However, with the starting rotation it makes sense to switch everything to take away penetration opportunities and close out on perimeter shots quicker.