Once again, the Pacers have me full of doubt heading into a tough game. Actually, I'm kind of considering the back-to-back games against Detroit, one big glob of a nightmare. Trying to envision a sweep of the two games is down right implausible. Making the case for getting swept by the Pistons, far too easy. So, here I am, hoping for a split and since the game tonight is in Detroit, I'm giving the Pacers no chance to win.
I don't have the stats, but I think the Pacers are undefeated this year when I give them no chance. But really, tonight seems like too great a task for the Pacers. The Pistons are arguably the strongest team in the East right now. Just ask O'B.
"They're my pick to win the East and they'll have to take care of business against the team in the West," Pacers coach Jim O'Brien said. "I have a lot of respect for Boston and other good teams in the East, but I like how long this group has been together. I'm a big Flip Saunders fan. I think they have all the ingredients to be in the Finals."
Check out Bruno's Scouting Report for more details on the game. Not good to see that J.O. thinks he needs a break to rest his knee as the Pacers are heading into a critical stretch of the schedule. Along with J.O., the Pacers need Marquis Daniels healthy and ready to go. Can't mess with the Pistons short-handed.For the Detroit essentials, check out Pistons Nation, Detroit Bad Boys, and Need4Sheed.
Here's what the efficiency numbers say:
| Team | Pace | Off.Eff. | Def.Eff. |
|---|---|---|---|
| IND | 97.2(2nd) | 106.8(16th) | 106.7(13th) |
| DET | 87.2(30th) | 113.2(3rd) | 102.8(3rd) |
The Pistons are slow, deliberate, and successful. Prepare for a grind.
Projected Starters
| PACERS | pos. | PISTONS |
|---|---|---|
| Jermaine O'Neal | F | Antonio McDyess |
| Danny Granger | F | Tayshaun Prince |
| Troy Murphy | C | Rasheed Wallace |
| Mike Dunleavy | G | Rip Hamilton |
| Jamaal Tinsley | G | Chauncey Billups |
Feel free to leave your thoughts on the game in the comments.