Loading ...Must-win.
A phrase used too often in professional sports.
But with Detroit’s Game 2 victory on Boston’s homecourt, tonight is a must-win game for the Celtics.
The C’s homecourt advantage means little to a battle-tested team like Detroit.
Chauncey, RIP, Tayshaun, and Rasheed have been in pressure-packed situations. A game 7 in Beantown won’t faze them.
That’s why tonight’s Game 6 — with Hamilton and Billups less than 100% — represents Boston’s best chance to advance to their first NBA Finals since 1987.
As it has in the previous 6 games, the game will come down to Rasheed versus Garnett. Garnett has hit at an impressive clip from mid-range but jumpshots don’t fall on a visitor’s court like they do at home.
It’s a matter of geography. The basket is still 10 feet high but arena lighting and the background behind the hoop is different.
Wallace scored 18 points in Game 5 but all 18 came off of 3-pointers (6-of-9). Rasheed attempted only three shots from inside the arc.
If Rasheed struggles with his shot or fails to establish himself down low and the Celtics jump out to an early lead, it will be interesting to see if Wallace can remain composed. He picked up his 6th technical foul of the playoffs in Game 5. Each additional technical carries a one game suspension from here on out.
If the Pistons are outed tonight, you can bet that they’ll be fireworks.
