When Detroit traded Chauncey Billups for Allen Iverson early in the season Pistons fans were hoping that A.I. would take the team to the next level. However, things obviously did not work out as planned. The fact that Detroit made it to the Eastern Conference finals every year since 2003-04 illustrates the frustration over the disappointing 39-43 record this season.  

In contrast, nobody has any complaints about the Cavaliers’ performance this year. Finishing the season with an impressive 66 wins and thus holding the best record NBA, Cleveland managed to secure home court advantage for the whole post-season. Without any doubts a huge advantage, considering that the Cavs are 39-2 at home, the second best home record in NBA history.

With Allen Iverson not being on the roster anymore and the lack of Chauncey Billups’ leadership Detroit will have an incredibly hard time to beat the Cavaliers in their own building. Cleveland has shown excellent defense throughout the regular season, while the Pistons have been struggling on both ends of the floor.

On top of the lack of teamplay, Detroit appears to have a disadvantage on nearly every position. Solely Rick Hamilton might be able to have an edge over Delonte West at the shooting guard position. Furthermore, the Pistons will most likely not have the means to contain Lebron James. Averaging 28.4 points, 7.6 rebounds and 7.2 assists per game King James can rightfully be regarded as the favorite to secure the MVP award this year. He has provided the leadership on and off the court to make the Cavaliers a legitimate championship candidate.

Thus, taking everything into consideration it seems like Pistons fans will have to pray for a miracle to happen in Loans Arena on Saturday. Even though there have been many playoff upsets over the past years in the NBA, it seems highly unlikely for one to happen this weekend in Cleveland. Nonetheless, you can watch this entertaining ball game right here on www.watchlivenba.com, the home of live NBA streaming.