Pistons seek redemption against Celtics after three-point shooting struggles
The Detroit Pistons are gearing up for a crucial showdown against the Boston Celtics on Monday night at TD Garden, marking their third encounter of the season. With each team having claimed a victory in their previous matchups, this game holds significant implications for a young Pistons squad currently sitting at 20–5.
Learning from Past Losses
This matchup is one the Pistons have notably circled on their calendar. Of their five losses this season, two have come against teams they faced again—the Chicago Bulls and the Milwaukee Bucks. In those rematches, Detroit demonstrated resilience, bouncing back with impressive performances. Following those defeats, the Pistons posted a remarkable 123.1 offensive rating alongside a solid 111.7 defensive rating, resulting in a +11.4 net rating. Those figures would rank them second in the league for both offense and defense, showcasing the consistency they aspire to maintain moving forward.
The Three-Point Factor
Their most recent encounter with Boston ended in a narrow three-point loss, a game that highlighted the glaring issue of three-point shooting. The Celtics excelled from beyond the arc, hitting an impressive 20 of 43 attempts. In stark contrast, the Pistons, who rank 28th in the league with only 11.2 made threes per game, struggled to find their rhythm, finishing with 11 made shots on 36 attempts.
This disparity not only reflects a deviation from Detroit’s identity but also underscores how Boston’s pace and shot selection posed challenges for the Pistons on both ends of the court. Defensively, Detroit’s discipline faltered, allowing Derrick White and Jaylen Brown to combine for 60 points, including eight three-pointers, as they capitalized on defensive lapses and late closeouts.
Strengths in the Paint
Despite the struggles from beyond the arc, the Pistons showcased their strength in other areas. They dominated the rebounding battle, securing a 12-rebound advantage, and controlled the paint, outscoring Boston 42–22 in that critical area. However, the Celtics’ sharpshooting significantly tightened Detroit’s margin for error, making each possession all the more crucial.
As the Pistons prepare to take on the Celtics once again, they’ll look to reclaim their identity and improve their three-point shooting, aiming to turn the tide in this heated rivalry.
