Detroit Pistons vs. Orlando Magic 2019-20 season preview
Pistons O vs. Magic D
The Magic were one of the best defensive teams last season, finishing fifth in opponent’s points per game. They allowed 106.6 per contest.
In last year’s season series, the Pistons averaged 111.3 across the four contests, granted one of those was an overtime meeting. The common theme in the three Pistons wins were hitting at least 11 three’s, and the bench had a hand in efficiency from the 3-point line in each win.
The likes of Luke Kennard, Sviatoslav Mykhailiuk and Langston Galloway will have an opportunity to thrive in this matchup as a result.
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Blake Griffin and Andre Drummond will have their hands full matching up against Gordon and Vucevic, respectively.
Vucevic has done a good job of negating Drummond’s strength and power in the paint. Historically, Drummond is averaging 12.7 points and 13 rebounds per game in 22 matchups, though the Pistons are 12-10 in those games.
Perhaps a newfound 3-point shot will force Vucevic to defend Drummond differently, giving the Pistons the edge in that matchup.
Griffin shot a highly-efficient 47.6 percent against the Magic last season, resulting in 21.3 points per game. His ability to create shot for himself and others is what the Pistons need to get the maximize the offense against quality defensive teams.