The Pistons were finally playing well as a cohesive unit, having won four of five- including a win at Staples Center against the Western Conference champion Lakers (LA's first loss of the season), and a home win against LeBron James and Central Division rival Cleveland.
Boston came into the game fatigued, having just finished off a greuling stretch of eight games in 11 days, of which they won seven. They won a hard fought overtime game in Milwaukee in which the Bucks made up a 13 point deficit in the fourth quarter, and then a chippy affair with the Knicks without Kevin Garnett, who was suspended for a slap to the face of Bucks center Andrew Bogut.
Everything early seemed to suggest it would be a long night for the Celtics. Detroit came out hot and Boston was flat, as the Pistons flew out to a 13-2 advantage. But that was it for Michael Curry's club, as the defending champs took over from there. Within moments the score was tied at 14, and the first quarter ended with the teams knotted up at 21.
The second quarter was all Celtics, who took a nine point lead into halftime. Boston outscored Detroit 56-36 in the second and third quarters combined, ensuring this one was a laugher going into the final frame.
Rajon Rondo outplayed Iverson, and despite a low scoring night from each member of the Big Three (Garnett had 15 points, Pierce had 9, and Allen 12), Boston won easily. Rondo finished with 18 points and 8 assists and, more importantly for the Celtics, Doc Rivers was able to ensure that nobody played more than 30 minutes.
This was a statement game for the Celtics, who reminded everyone that they remain the team to beat in the Eastern Conference. Dominating defense (they have held Detroit to their two lowest point totals this season) and a potent offense make the 11-2 Celtics favorites to at least reach the NBA Finals once again this June.
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