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The Detroit Pistons will be disappointed to have not won a game on the road, but can look to turn things around when they head home in Game 3 of the first-round NBA Playoffs against the Cleveland Cavaliers. Join The Roar for live scores from 9am (AEST).
The Pistons so nearly found a way to get the better of their more fancied opponents in the first game, which came as a complete surprise to most. Interestingly enough though, the Cavaliers have just inexplicably lost games at weird times throughout the season.
It was only a massive recovery effort in the last quarter that saw Cleveland escape with their home court advantage in order, as they eventually recorded a 106-101 victory.
Game 2 was a little easier for the Cavaliers as they were able to take out a 17-point win. They got off to a slow start again, with the Pistons taking a five-point lead out of the first quarter.
However, after a strong second quarter, they built their lead substantially during the third to 14 points and could put it on cruise control to the end.
As a team, it is clear that a lack of rebounding and large amount of turnovers have hurt the Pistons throughout the first two games. They have almost gone down in rebounding by double digits in each game.
Rebounding against Cleveland is such a key to their often one-dimensional offence. The approach of using LeBron James as the key weapon often backfires on them, with little other plays to be used that involve the likes of Kyrie Irving, Kevin Love or Tristan Thompson. However, giving up those rebounds gives a second chance on the offensive end for Cleveland, and they don’t normally fail consistently.
Of course, turnovers are one of the key barometers to winning any basketball game – and if the Pistons can’t turn that around and continue to give up possessions and opportunities then they shouldn’t expect to even compete.
LeBron James – as I have said a thousand times now – is the key to the Cavaliers. It doesn’t matter what the skills of others like Love, Irving or Thompson are – it is James who can turn the game on its head in a hurry. The amount of offence he can provide has a direct effect on Cleveland’s game plan and the pressure is no doubt on him, and those who guard him once again.
Prediction
I’ve taken the Pistons in each of the first two games, and the Cavaliers never seem far away from a loss. For mine, back at home the Pistons will win a game before this series it out – and it could be this one.
Pistons by 8.
Be sure to join The Roar for live scores of this first round NBA Playoffs match from 9am (AEST) and don’t forget to add your own comments in the section below as the action unfolds in Detroit.
Follow Scott on Twitter @sk_pryde