November 17th, 2004 - 6:30 PM (Central Time)
Minnesota Timberwolves(4-2) @Detroit Pistons(3-3)
Last game: Minnesota - Win, 108-97
Last game: Detroit - Loss, 93-108
Projected Starting Lineups:
Reserves:
Big test for both teams. Minnesota has already played two of the East's best this year, and both have been at home. This one though, is in the champions' backyard. Detroit has a measley 3-3 record, but Big Ben should be back and ready to go. The main factor of this game is going to be how effectively the Wallace's can guard KG. KG needs to take the ball to the rack so he can get one of the Wallace's in foul trouble. For Minnesota, they are still looking for a second offensive contributor to consistently bring it. With a balanced attack, Minnesota should be able to pull it off. I expect Billups to take the ball right at Cassell every chance he gets, which will be another key matchup in the game. I think Detroit will win this one, because they will be desperate not to fall below .500 at home, on national TV.
Prediction: Detroit 93, Minnesota 88