Wednesday, March 12, 2008

Sixers Knock Off Pistons

Halfway through the week I dubbed "Hell Week", and the Sixers are halfway towards their goal of winning two games. They barely defeated the Pistons 83-82, made no shots in the final 2:27 of play, and needed Mr. Clutch Chauncey Billups to miss a last second shot to pull it off, but when you are fighting for the playoffs, a win is a win.

The Sixers won despite not shooting well down the stretch, and finished the game shooting only slightly above 40%. They continue to shoot poorly from outside, but tonight only attempted 8 shots from beyond the arc. The Sixers played a good all-around team game, with 5 players finishing in double figures in points. Andre Iguodala led the way with 22 points, and Reggie Evans had a big game with 12 points and 11 boards.

Philly proved two things tonight. They proved that while they rely on an uptempo, fast-break style, they can win a game where the tempo is considerably slower and they have to rely on their half-court game. They managed only 8 fast break points, but still pulled out the victory. The Sixers also proved they can win a big game without Willie Green. With Rodney Carney playing well and Thaddeus Young getting more minutes, Green was barely missed.

Andre Miller hurt his back and missed the end of the game, but is considered day to day. I doubt he will miss any games.

Up next for the Sixers is the lowly Chicago Bulls on Friday. It's a must-win game with the Spurs looming on Saturday.

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