NBA Playoffs, Pistons Survive, Spurs Lose

There were two game-twos last night in the second round. The Detroit Pistons got past Orlando and New Orleans beat the San Antonio Spurs. The Pistons and Hornets now lead their respective series 2-0. Detroit out-shot the Magic except in three-pointers and had more assists, which indicates to me that they played more as a team. The Pistons also had more steals, fast break points and shut down Rashard Lewis of the Magic (6-21 FG). (Maybe Lewis was just missing shots). Detroit also was benefited by a missed call late in the game. Chauncey Billups made a three-point shot, but not before time had already expired. The refs allowed the shot. This put the Pistons up by one point. The Magic out rebounded the Pistons, especially on the offensive end, but their 19 turnovers really hurt them. Even then, they were still in the game late. The Magic can only play better at home, where the next two games will be. Don´t count them out yet.

In New Orleans, game two was much like game one. San Antonio starts strong, but the Hornets surge in the second half. Chris Paul was unbelievable with 30 points and 12 assists. Tony Parker, his counter part, was only 5-14 in field goals (which is also unbelievable). Manu Ginobili only shot 4-10 too. Did the Hornet defense stop Parker and Ginobili or did these guys just miss shots? New Orleans is hoping it was the former. The Hornets out-shot the Spurs in all categories especially in three-point shots and were about even in rebounds. San Antonio did stop David West (2-11 shooting) and now go home for games three and four. Do the Spurs still have what it takes to win a semi-final series? I think they do. Don´t count the Spurs out either.