Detroit Pistons vs. Milwaukee Bucks Preview 11-2-2022
The Pistons are coming off a loss in a nail-biter at Fiserv Forum against the Milwaukee Bucks. If not for Jrue Holiday's game-winning three-pointer to put Detroit away in the final minute, the Pistons had a legitimate chance to win this game. A two-point loss to an undefeated Eastern Conference powerhouse is an incredible testament to the growth and grit of this team. Following Monday's loss, the Pistons will have the opportunity to get one back in tonight's rematch, in which Giannis Antetokounmpo and his Bucks squad will host Detroit yet again. Riding the All-Star level play from Cade Cunningham, this exhibition presents itself as a matchup that could turn the tide of Detroit's season.
How To Watch:
When: 8:00 PM EST
Where: Fiserv Forum - Milwaukee, Wisconsin
TV: Bally Sports Detroit & Bally Sports Milwaukee
Motor Cade Cruising
Cade has averaged 27.8 points, 8 assists, and 8.3 rebounds in his past four matchups. The game has visibly slowed down for him, and his ability to quarterback the Pistons' offense is on full display. He no longer flips a switch between passive and aggressive play-styles and, instead, plays with a synergetic balance between the two for all four quarters. He keeps the defense on their heels by staying in attack mode all game long, which opens up numerous opportunities off the pick-and-roll. The results speak for themselves - he has increased space to shoot in the midrange when defenders play the roll, and when they step up, they are unable to play the pass and often get blown by if Cade chooses to put his head down and go downhill.
Look for Cade to continue his hot streak and make a case for himself as a second-year All-Star contender.
Nullifying Giannis
The Greek Freak needs no introduction. His ability to dominate on both ends of the floor is a treat to watch, except when he plays against your team. Very few players in the NBA can provide any sort of damage control on the lengthy rim-runner; however, there are other ways to take him out of the game. As seen in the previous matchup, continuously attacking him in the paint when he helps on defense can and will get him into foul trouble. He overcommits on his aggressive block attempts, and with well-timed appeals, refs will call fouls more often than not.
On the other end, putting up a wall with any combination of Duren, Noel, and Stewart will force Antetokounmpo to take more shots in the post - which is far more advantageous than allowing easy buckets at the rim. The primary reason for Giannis' success two nights ago was Stewart's inability to defend him one-on-one. Stripping him of the easy buckets will force his teammates to step up and, in turn, will dramatically increase the Pistons' chances of putting up another fight.
