Decided to write this thread as an extension of my thoughts provided prior to Game 4 as I commented that I most probably would continue to stay with the Pistons in Game 5. With that in mind, I will share my thoughts on tonight's game.
First, from a fundamental standpoint, nothing has changed in the player match-ups that should be cause for concern. In fact, Malone's contribution is most likely to be even less then expected in Game 4. From a situational standpoint, some caution is in order here. Prior to Game 4, it was highly anticipated that the game could be pivotal to the overall series and that both teams would bring a high level of intensity and did so as expected. Even though this is a close-out game, expectation here is that both teams will not be able to match that level of intensity early, particularly defensively, at the outset of the game. With that being said, however, expect the Pistons to play relaxed being up 3-1 and playing before their home crowd and familiar surroundings of the Auburn Palace. But, if their early level of defense is not in full gear, expect the Lakers to put up some early points. However, don't believe the Laker defense will be as stout either and thus expect to see some easy hoops put on the board by the Pistons early as well. As the game progresses, fully expect the defensive level of intensity to pick up and the distinct superiority in depth for the Pistons to gradually gain control of the game and wear down a mentally tired Laker squad. If the game is close in the fourth quarter, expect the crowd to lift the Pistons level once again with the title in reach. Unless the Lakers somehow build up a large lead early, the Pistons should be able to close out the series tonight. Therefore, as it has been in each of the first four games, my money will once again be on Detroit tonight.
Those are my thoughts. Best of luck to everyone tonight and if this truly is the end to the NBA season, it has been a pleasure sharing with my fellow posters, members, and viewers and wish for each of you the very best in good health, happiness and success in the future.
First, from a fundamental standpoint, nothing has changed in the player match-ups that should be cause for concern. In fact, Malone's contribution is most likely to be even less then expected in Game 4. From a situational standpoint, some caution is in order here. Prior to Game 4, it was highly anticipated that the game could be pivotal to the overall series and that both teams would bring a high level of intensity and did so as expected. Even though this is a close-out game, expectation here is that both teams will not be able to match that level of intensity early, particularly defensively, at the outset of the game. With that being said, however, expect the Pistons to play relaxed being up 3-1 and playing before their home crowd and familiar surroundings of the Auburn Palace. But, if their early level of defense is not in full gear, expect the Lakers to put up some early points. However, don't believe the Laker defense will be as stout either and thus expect to see some easy hoops put on the board by the Pistons early as well. As the game progresses, fully expect the defensive level of intensity to pick up and the distinct superiority in depth for the Pistons to gradually gain control of the game and wear down a mentally tired Laker squad. If the game is close in the fourth quarter, expect the crowd to lift the Pistons level once again with the title in reach. Unless the Lakers somehow build up a large lead early, the Pistons should be able to close out the series tonight. Therefore, as it has been in each of the first four games, my money will once again be on Detroit tonight.
Those are my thoughts. Best of luck to everyone tonight and if this truly is the end to the NBA season, it has been a pleasure sharing with my fellow posters, members, and viewers and wish for each of you the very best in good health, happiness and success in the future.
