Detroit Pistons vs. Houston Rockets 2019-20 season preview
Rockets O vs. Pistons D
Defense is often unquantifiable and Bruce Brown’s arrival in the league came when he shut down Harden. His perimeter defense prowess was born with this performance.
That certainly helps but the Pistons have to also account for Westbrook, which is easier said than done. The addition of Tony Snell should help as he can shadow one and Brown the other, allowing Reggie Jackson to defend another guard.
Westbrook is a career 30.8 percent 3-point shooter so using Brown to keep him from driving to the rim will take away catch-and-shoot opportunities and force Harden to take control of the offense.
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Detroit matches up nicely when it comes to this end but the key will be to keep Houston out of the paint, which is largely the responsibility of Griffin’s help defense and Drummond on pick-and-rolls.
Capela had a field day against the Pistons last season and, really, for the duration of his career. He’s averaged 16.6 points and 13 rebounds per game in seven career games against the Pistons.
Closing out on 3-point attempts and keeping Houston out of the lane and off the free throw line will be key. Detroit can’t afford to allow them to get in a rhythm.