Opinion
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Can the Detroit Pistons Outshine the Phoenix Suns at Footprint Center?

The Detroit Pistons are gearing up for a challenging encounter against the Phoenix Suns at the Footprint Center, and fans are eager to see if they can turn their fortunes around. Despite a tough season, with only 2 wins out of 29 games, there's always room for an upset in basketball.


DETROIT, MI - NOVEMBER 5: Kevin Durant #35 of the Phoenix Suns shoots a free throw during the game against the Detroit Pistons on November 5, 2023 at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2023 NBAE (Photo by Chris Schwegler/NBAE via Getty Images)

In their last game on December 24 against the Brooklyn Nets, DET showed signs of life. They managed to rack up an impressive 115 points with a field goal percentage of 49 and a three-point shooting rate of 43 percent. Their offensive efforts were commendable as they led for over five minutes and had a biggest lead of six points during the game. However, defensive woes continued to haunt them as they allowed 126 points against them.


The Pistons' bench contributed significantly with 24 points but it was not enough to secure victory. The team's efficiency rating stood at 119 which is notable considering their overall record this season. One area where DET excelled was in fast break situations; they scored 20 fast break points from just twelve attempts which shows that when given space, this team can be lethal.


DETROIT, MI - NOVEMBER 5: Cade Cunningham #2 of the Detroit Pistons shoots the ball during the game against the Phoenix Suns on November 5, 2023 at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2023 NBAE (Photo by Chris Schwegler/NBAE via Getty Images)

Comparatively, in another recent game on December 22 against Utah Jazz at Little Caesars Arena, DET displayed defensive strength by blocking nine shots and stealing six times from their opponents. However, turnovers were once again an issue as they gave away possession twenty-one times leading to several easy baskets for Utah.


Looking ahead to February's matchup with PHX, it’s clear that if DET wants any chance of winning they must tighten up defensively while maintaining their offensive spurts seen in previous games. The Suns have been formidable opponents this season and will look to exploit any weaknesses shown by the Pistons’ defense.


DETROIT, MI - NOVEMBER 5: Cade Cunningham #2 of the Detroit Pistons shoots the ball during the game against the Phoenix Suns on November 5, 2023 at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2023 NBAE (Photo by Chris Schwegler/NBAE via Getty Images)

Fans should expect an energetic contest where DET will need to capitalize on every opportunity presented if they wish to leave Arizona with a win under their belt. It’s going to be about execution on both ends of the court – minimizing turnovers while maximizing scoring chances especially from beyond the arc and in transition plays.


The scheduled date for this clash is February 15th at Footprint Center in Phoenix; tip-off is set for February 14th at 9:00 PM EST (7:00 PM local time). Fans looking forward not just to Valentine’s Day but also some exciting basketball action can catch all live coverage via BSDET channel number 663 or tune into AZFamily network if residing within home broadcast regions.

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