The Philadelphia 76ers pulled off the biggest upset in the first volley of Game 1s in the NBA Playoffs with a victory in Detroit, and they will have a chance to put the Pistons in an 0-2 hole when the two teams meet at the Palace of Auburn Hills in Wednesday's NBA postseason action. BetOnline.com has the Detroit Pistons -10 point favorites against the Philadelphia 76ers with the over/under set at 178 points.
The 76ers had every reason to give up in Game 1's 90-86 win, especially when they were down by 15 points in the third quarter. But then Philadelphia, who got a team-high 20 points from Andre Miller, outscored the Pistons by 11 in the fourth quarter, holding Detroit to 39% from the floor overall. The young 76ers did everything they needed to do in this game, including rebounding (a 45-43 edge), turnovers (committing only 12) and they played within themselves (only five three-pointers attempted). Andre Igoudala had a solid all-around game with 16 points, nine rebounds and eight assists for the 76ers, who proved that playoff experience does not mean everything in the NBA.
The Pistons have had a reputation of being overconfident and playing lackadaisically when their opposition, seemingly, is not on their level. When they had their 15-point lead, Detroit took their foot off the pedal. This group of former champions should know better, especially the guard duo of Chauncey Billups and Richard Hamilton, who combined for 27 points and were outplayed by their Philadelphia counterparts. Rasheed Wallace had 24 points, nine boards and seven blocks for the Pistons, and he was the only Detroit player who played with any type of passion or urgency.
The Pistons are big 10-point favorites at home in this clash, and the 76ers may have awakened a sleeping giant with their efforts in Game 1. Billups will be the key, as he cannot have another 3-for-9 shooting performance. The Pistons also need to get more production from their bench players. The 76ers will be happy to take a split back to Philadelphia, but in Game 2, it will be all Pistons as they roll to a comfortable win. Get your Free NBA Playoffs Pick in Now!
Philadelphia 76ers at Detroit Pistons – 7:30 PM ET
Free NBA Playoffs Pick: Detroit Pistons
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