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Why the 76ers should win: They have a deeper frontcourt, more playoff experience and a big-time closer in Allen Iverson. Unlike the Magic, the Sixers have quality big men, like Derrick Coleman, Kenny Thomas, Keith Van Horn and Tyrone Hill. They should be better equipped to keep Pistons forward Ben Wallace off the boards and limit his ability to roam around and wreak havoc. Philly also has a decided edge in experience, with nearly all its key players having already been to the NBA Finals. Finally, Iverson is a difference-maker. Though he struggled against Detroit during the regular season (22.0 points), he usually raises his game in the playoffs.
Why the Pistons should win: They have bigger guards, a deep bench and a major defensive presence in Wallace. Chauncey Billups and Richard Hamilton were able to shoot over Orlando’s small guards in the last series, and they should get some good looks in this one against Iverson. If Detroit’s other players can find a way to score, it should be OK. The Pistons managed to wear down Tracy McGrady in the last round, and their smart team defense will make Iverson work for everything he gets. The series likely will be a low-scoring, grind-it-out affair, so the Pistons' bench will need to step up like it did against the Magic.
Keep an eye on: Van Horn. The Sixers forward is coming off an 18-point, 18-rebound effort in his team’s Game 6 clincher against the Hornets. He doesn’t have to match those numbers, but the 6-foot-10 sharpshooter can’t afford to let Michael Curry and other rugged Pistons defenders take him out of his game, either.
Did you know? The Pistons have home-court advantage, but the Sixers were the only team in the East to boast a winning record (23-18) on the road. Despite dropping its last two, Philly won 17 of its last 23 away from home. |
| SI.com's Marty Burns: 76ers in 6 |
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