After pounding the Pacers last night, the Detroit Pistons arrive at the Fieldhouse tonight looking for a sweep. The news didn't get any better over night. After sitting out the second half last night, Jamaal Tinsley is doubtful to go tonight with an ailing hammy. I'd say the Pacers will need more than 13 FGAs and 17 points COMBINED from Dunleavy and Granger tonight.
I'd hope for a let down from the Pistons, but they're a championship caliber team that counts consistent effort among their greatest assets. This is my last night in Seattle and as far as following the Pacers, I can't wait to get home. I miss seeing hearing the sultry pipes of Stacy Paetz and watching each possession.
Here's what the efficiency numbers say:
| Team | Pace | Off.Eff. | Def.Eff. |
|---|---|---|---|
| IND | 97.1(2nd) | 106.8(16th) | 107.2(15th) |
| DET | 87.4(30th) | 113.5(3rd) | 103.0(2nd) |
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.