Pistons vs. Warriors Discussion: Game Time, TV, Odds, and More

SB Nation

The Detroit Pistons need to remember how to shoot or this road trip is going to end on a sour note. The Pistons were held under 100 points for the fifth time this season, and the primary factor is the team’s

inability to hit outside shots. Detroit made just six of 29 3-pointers. Essentially, it’s been Duncan Robinson or nothing behind the line, and if he’s having an off night, Detroit’s offense grinds to a halt. Tobias just isn’t as effective or as prolific as he has been in year’s past, Javonte Green has been cold after being more reliable than not, and Daniss Jenkins tailed off. Ron Holland’s a willing shooter, but misses plenty, and Isaiah Stewart has been more focused on the interior lately. It’s creating problems for Cade Cunningham, it’s made Ausar Thompson’s inside driving completely inert, and the bench unit, one of the team’s superpowers, really struggles for long stretches.

Golden State is a middling shot-making team, ranking 12th in the NBA in 3-point percentage, but boy, do they love to get their shots up. The Warriors attempt the most threes in the league, hoisting 13 more than the Pistons on a nightly basis. That can turn a nine-point Pistons lead into a one-score game awfully quick. And Detroit will need ways to keep pace. Luckily for the Pistons, there might be a path to some easy points. The Warriors are near the bottom of the league in opponent’s fast break points, and are a below-average rebounding team. This is a chance for Detroit to get second looks and turn defense into offense.