This series is some kind of offensive stalemate with Pistons shooting FGs around 38% and Pacers even lower around 35%…..not too exciting to watch as witnessed in last night’s lackluster performance. I’m glad to see O’Neal come back into the game after that nasty rebound. Otherwise Pistons looked horrendous shooting, and no confidence shot taking added to an ugly defeat. Carlisle may be finding ways to capitalize on Detroit shooting droughts. And with Al Harrington brining extra energy off the bench with decent scoring while limiting Rasheed’s total to less than 15ppg may be the ticket.

The series peaked at game two with Detroit’s benchmark defensive performance. Yes, game 2 will rank as one of the greatest TEAM defensive exhibitions ever to be played. This game in particular was of great anticipation with Rasheed making the guarantee to win. It was only after the game with Rip’s commenting that the team had Rasheed’s back regardless how many points Wallace would have scored. Now that’s TEAM ball! And last night, O’Neal writing Reggie’s Jersey number on his sneakers in paying tribute to Reggie before the game and getting the win keeps Indiana on the up. I can’t say enough about Artest, He is Superb…period. Talk about guarantees, who was the last Knick player to make good on a guarantee or game prediction, and against what team ?

Martin, trying to get Houston to play like Rip is no comparison. Rip is some 2-4 years from approaching his prime, whereas H20 has just peaked. And H20’s knee injury does not help. Don’t get me wrong, H20 still has a lot game in the tank. Allan can’t match Rip “loose” level. Rip had his nose damaged twice and still brings his “A” game while sporting a new grill protector. Larry Brown is beyond being a good coach…… probably has a two and maybe a 3 year window to validate his greatness.

Joe Dumars is sure trying to concoct something other than just motor city madness