Detroit Pistons vs. New Orleans Pelicans 2019-20 season preview

Pistons O vs. Pelicans D

Griffin was incredible in the series, averaging 36 points, 7 rebounds and 4.5 assists per game in the two games last season. He handled Julius Randle and Nikola Mirotic with ease. His ability to post them up was key but also take them on the perimeter.

This season’s rendition of the Pelicans will be able to throw Ingram, who is athletic at 6-foot-9 with a 7-foot-3 wingspan, Williamson, Hayes and Favors, who Griffin could take on the perimeter, at Griffin defensively. That’s enough to depth to force Griffin to work for 48 minutes each night.

Drummond is a load to handle and Okafor, at 6-foot-11, 275 pounds, figures to be a good defensive matchup for Drummond. He’ll be able to handle Drummond’s strength and stature, though the Pistons center is quicker on his feet.

New Orleans is a team that could allow Casey to play a two-point guard lineup, extending to three guards in total, in a small-ball matchup. That’s considering Holiday played well as a two-guard. Jackson, new addition Derrick Rose, Bruce Brown, Luke Kennard, Sviatoslav Mykhailiuk and, even, Tim Frazier could see extended minutes with the guard play the Pelicans boast.

Slowing the game day will be key for the Pistons, limiting turnovers and securing rebounds will go a long way in doing that. They need to execute their halfcourt sets and take advantage of the size and experience in the post.