With already three losses in a row, the worst series of their season, and the fatigue that showed the tip of its nose, the reception of the pistons was dangerous for Riderswhich could thus fall into the crisis in the event of a reverse. Especially since the match was defensive, with only 110 points for Cleveland.
And this season, when the men of Kenny Atkinson do not arrive at this bar, they are in difficulty: four matches, three defeats … So we had to compensate in defense. They did so successfully.
“These players have a lot of pride, in particular concerning their defensive identity. You have to know how to win the matches in several ways ”,, Recalls Kenny Atkinson. “We hadn't really recorded a victory like that, without being able to put shoots and limiting our opponent. It was like one of the matches of the 1980s and it is good to have held up, for having defended. »»
The worst exit from Detroit
Never had the pistons scored so little this season, ending this part only with only 91 points in the clock at 39% success in the shoot and 28% at 3-PTS.
“We sent a message in defense”estimates Max Strus. “When things are not doing well, this group takes things to heart and knows how to bounce back. I am proud of our answer, our efforts. We were not good offensively, it is obvious, but it is not necessary when we can defend as well. »»
It is therefore proof that the riders, the best attack and the 9th defense of the League, are not obliged to stick 130 or 140 points with 20 award -winning baskets to win.
“It was the essential of the meeting: the defense”adds Evan Mobley. “We focused on this point and we had a big defensively match. The attack was not there, but the defense yes. She must remain the primary identity of our team and we will win a lot of matches. »»
