Opinion
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Pistons Set to Lock Horns with Lakers at Crypto.com Arena

As the Detroit Pistons prepare to face off against the Los Angeles Lakers, fans are bracing for what could be a defining moment in their season. The Pistons, carrying a record that's far from enviable, have shown sparks of potential that suggest they shouldn't be underestimated.


DETROIT, MI - NOVEMBER 29: Jalen Hood-Schifino #0 of the Los Angeles Lakers  shoots a free throw during the game against the Detroit Pistons on November 29, 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 outing on December 24th against the Brooklyn Nets, the Pistons put up an impressive 115 points. Despite falling short by 11 points to the Nets' 126, there were positive takeaways. The team's field goal percentage was nearly 50 percent and they shot a respectable 43 percent from beyond the arc. Their efficiency game score stood at a solid 88.0.


However, it's crucial to acknowledge that defense has been Detroit's Achilles heel this season. With an average defensive rating hovering around the high teens in recent games and allowing opponents over one point per possession, it’s clear where improvements are needed if they want to secure more wins.


DETROIT, MI - NOVEMBER 29: D'Angelo Russell #1 of the Los Angeles Lakers handles the ball during the game against the Detroit Pistons  on November 29, 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 Brian Sevald/NBAE via Getty Images)

The upcoming clash with the Lakers presents both challenge and opportunity for Detroit. The Lakers' home court advantage at Crypto.com Arena will undoubtedly play into their hands, but if DET can harness some of their offensive firepower while tightening up defensively – particularly in paint where they've previously allowed too many easy baskets – there may just be hope for an upset.


It’s worth noting that despite recent struggles, DET has demonstrated resilience and an ability not only to create scoring opportunities but also capitalize on them through fast breaks and second-chance points.


DETROIT, MI - NOVEMBER 29:  LeBron James #23 of the Los Angeles Lakers handles the ball during the game against the Detroit Pistons on November 29, 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 Brian Sevald/NBAE via Getty Images)

Looking ahead to Valentine's Day evening when these two teams meet again under Los Angeles' bright lights; Pistons fans should expect nothing less than full-throttle effort from their squad as they attempt to disrupt LAL’s rhythm and steal away a victory on foreign hardwood.


For those who bleed blue and red back home or anywhere else across the globe: mark your calendars for February 14th at 10:30 PM Eastern Time (7:30 PM local time). This showdown will be broadcasted live on BSDET channel 663 for away fans wanting every piece of action as it unfolds in real-time.

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