DETROIT – Can the Detroit Pistons make the playoffs? Better question -- do we want them to make the playoffs?
The Detroit basketball Pistons sit 4.5 games behind the 8th and final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference, currently held by the Boston Celtics. With 11 games remaining, the Pistons, who have won 4 out of their last 5 games, will need to keep winning -- and they are going to need some help if they have playoff aspirations.
Recommended Videos
Luckily, for the Pistons, their remaining schedule points in their favor. They play the Miami Heat twice, the Charlotte Hornets twice, along with matchups against the Pacers, Celtics and Knicks, who the Pistons have beaten this year, and teams that stand between them and the playoffs. They could gain full games in the race with wins against these teams.
Pistons starting 2-guard, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope has been shooting at a 54 percent clip in the last 5 games, and Reggie Jackson is finally finding his groove as point guard, averaging over 12 assist per game in the same time-span. If any playoff hope exists, it is in the hands of the Pistons backcourt.
Wait, do we want the Pistons to make the playoffs?
It's something you hear about regularly from Pistons fans, or writers around town -- the Pistons should tank for a better draft pick.
Although, the thought of a team tanking is discouraging for the sport and fans, it holds some truth. If the Pistons make the playoffs, they will likely have a quick exit at the hands of the Hawks or Cavs, and will end up with a non-lottery pick for the second straight year.
Currently, the Pistons are projected to have the 8th pick in next year's NBA Draft. The team would benefit much more from a successful lottery pick, than a playoff appearance, and first round exit. But for a franchise who hasn't tasted the playoffs in over 5 years, it might be too tough of a pill to swallow.
What do you think? Do you want them to make the playoffs, or are you hoping they lose for a better draft pick? Leave a comment on our Local 4 Sports Facebook Page.