2-1: Observations & Sheed Animosity

Well, the Pistons came and went quickly in Game 3. It seemed as if it was over before it ever really started. And now, we must suffer a series of questions about whether Flip has control? Or is the team crumbling? Can they turn it on? Are they old? Are they bored? Do they care? What's up with Chauncey? Will they fire Flip? What the fuck? Yup, on and on...it will surely go from now until Saturday, despite the fact that's one mere game.

However, before I dip a little into observations on the events of Game 3 it should be noted that this loss was expected. Yes, unlike the die hard homer fan that fails to admit their team is vulnerable, it's time to face reality. And that being that these Pistons can be beat on any night. They aren't invincible and they probably snuck one out in Game 2. So, to consider tonight's game a complete shock is absurd. If I had no allegiance to the Pistons, I would've hammered the Magic on the spread without hesitation. Does it mean they are toast? Absolutely not. Does it mean there is a shitload of pressure on them for Game 4? You bet your ass.

That said, let's dig into what went right and what went wrong; along with simple observations from your resident now "heavily intoxicated" Piston fan.

The Sheed Animosity: Another series, more hatred for Rasheed. Sure, I understand the hate, but it's comical to hear opposing teams fans claim he sucks. Apparently, those folks hardly have a clue as to what they are talking about. Is the guy volatile? Yes. Does he have numerous temper tantrums where you are like "what the fuck"? Of course, but the dude simply plays hard...all the time. Then again, Piston fans can sense the envy.

Homecourt: The Magic shooters felt a little more at home. That was to be expected. However, this is hardly an arena that should phase the Pistons. They've won in much more difficult venues. You had to somehow think that nature would take it's course and the Pistons 9 game Playoff winning streak against the Magic would come to an end. The "blazing" shooting to start the game for the Magic set the pace the Pistons could never recover from. Consider that home cooking.

Rashard Lewis: Mis-match. The Magic found a kink in the Pistons defense and picked at it like a scab. Rasheed Wallace, bless his heart, can't cover Rashard Lewis. He's too quick on the perimeter and keeps Sheed off the blocks for defensive rebounds. Of course, if Sheed leaves Lewis to help on Howard...that spells doom. I've got nothing in terms of how they resolve this problem. That's why I don't get paid to drink and watch the game.

Rip Hamilton: You're in denial if you think Rip shot the Pistons back into the game. Rip has gotta go!!! He's shooting around 34% for the series and his timely poor decisions and/or bad shot selection never get a mention. What...are you afraid to pick on a guy that wears a mask? Great, he scored 20 tonight...much better than his 4 for 18 in Game 2. However, I'll give you 3 critical points Rip left on the table. Late in the third quarter he led a 3-on-1 fast break only to turn the ball over. A few seconds later he missed a free throw. Without those mistakes -- we are tied going into the 4th. Would it have made a difference? Probably not, but I'm sick of Rip.

Tayshaun: He's shooting 60% in the Playoffs. How about getting him the pill just a little bit more? I'm talking to you Rip.

Dwight Howard: Again, the Stones have simply no answer for Howard. However, we should've known that coming into this series. Maxiell, Ratliff and McDyess are throwing everything and every foul they can at the big man, but there won't be resolve. It's time to face up and focus on blanketing the rest of his teammates and try, just try to box him out to avoid the offensive rebounds. Is it Amir Johnson time?

Chauncey: Losing him obviously changed the complexion of the game. Coming into this series the Pistons key match-up advantage was going to be Billups vs. Nelson. Without Billups we lost a key cog to our offensive game plan and Nelson was able to dribble, drive, facilitate and shoot with much greater ease.

Rodney Stuckey: Balls. The kid came off the bench to replace Chauncey quite admirably. He was hardly perfect, but he was better than we could've imagined. They say Joe Dumars drafts a certain mold of player and we got a glimpse last night into Joe D's vision. Stuckey will be around for quite sometime and eases the burden of an aging team that could be on it's last leg.

Game 4: Needless to say...it's huge. The Pistons can ill afford to have this series drag out, nor allow the Magic to push them to the brink. That said, it's certainly not going to be easy. An inspired Game 3 from the Magic was to be expected. However, let's all just relax and not press the panic button. Sure, there are worries about Chauncey, but let's wait and see. Of course, if they happen to lose Game 4...then it's probably time to worry.

See you Saturday.