The Pistons have a pretty clear formula right now. Defend. Pressure. Make everything uncomfortable.
That showed up in a big way in Game 2 of their first-round series against the Magic. Detroit flipped the game with its defense and now heads on the road for a pivotal Game 3 on Saturday (1 p.m. EST).
“It was five guys out there, collectively flying around,” coach J.B. Bickerstaff said, via Omari Sankofa II of the Detroit Free Press. “Playing with effort, making extra efforts, rebounding, creating turnovers. That led to our offense.”
That’s been the identity. And when it clicks, it’s tough to deal with.
Just ask Desmond Bane. The Magic’s big offseason addition is shooting 29 percent through two games. Detroit has thrown bodies at him all series.
“It’s no one-on-one situations,” Bickerstaff said. “It’s always one-on-fives.”
Ausar Thompson has taken on a big chunk of that assignment, but he hasn’t been alone. Detroit’s length and activity have made life difficult across the board.
There’s also been help coming from everywhere else.
Javonte Green continues to do the little things. He appeared in all 82 games this season and has carried that energy into the playoffs. In Game 2, he finished with three blocks and a steal while guarding multiple positions, despite taking just one shot.
“His effort on the defensive end is special,” Bickerstaff said, via Coty Davis of the Detroit News.
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