Detroit’s season so far is not likely what Joe Dumars had in mind when he put together this year's team. Throughout this rebuilding effort, a rash of injuries has prevented at least two starters from playing in any given game, while a fairly non-existent defense has led to a disappointing 12-25 record – good only for last in the Central, and second-to-last in the East. However, the good news is that other than the top four teams in the East the rest of the conference is not too much better, and that the Pistons are only five games out of a playoff spot!
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Unfortunately, neither power forward Charlie Villanueva (14.1 points, 5.4 rebounds) nor shooting guard Ben Gordon (17.2 points, 3 assists) seem to have added the spark that was hoped for when Detroit acquired them, and point guard Rodney Stuckey does not seem ready to take charge of the team even though he does lead Detroit in a few statistical categories.
The leaders at each end of the floor are Stuckey, who leads the Pistons with 18.2 points, 4.4 assists, and 1.41 steals per game, and reacquired center and fan favorite Ben Wallace, with 9.1 rebounds (3.8 offensive, 5.3 defensive) and 1 block per contest, while also 2nd on the team with 1.3 steals a night. Rounding out the list of primary contributors is point guard Will Bynum (12.1 points, 3 rebounds, 4.3 assists), while shooting guard Richard Hamilton (18.1 points, 3.8 assists) and forward Tayshaun Prince (8.9 points, 3.8 rebounds, 2.2 assists) have been limited by injuries, playing in 11 and 9 games each respectively.
Currently Hamilton, Prince, and Gordon are listed as day-to-day on the injury report, but if they make it back soon, and the rest of this team begins to play better defense in support of Wallace, this is a team that has the talent and experience to make up the five game spread that currently separates them form the 8th playoff slot in the East. Get you tickets now and come to the Palace to see the Detroit Pistons turn things around in the second half and maybe even spoil someone else’s playoffs hopes.
Currently housed in The Palace of Auburn Hills, the 2009 Detroit Pistons tickets will prove to be a good investment. With recent trades and the resigning of Ben Wallace, the table is set for a strong season. The addition of Chris Wilcox as well as new head coach John Kuester should play a factor in the success of this great team from the motor city.