Nets at Pistons
THE STORY: The Detroit Pistons will look for their fourth straight win and the sweep of a home-and-home series over New Jersey when they host the Nets on Friday. Detroit won 99-92 Wednesday in New Jersey to even the season series at one win apiece. The Pistons shot a season-high 53.4 per cent in handing the Nets their fourth straight loss. New Jersey’s last win was at home Feb. 1 – a 99-96 triumph over Detroit.
TV: 7:30 p.m. ET, YES, FS Detroit Plus
ABOUT THE NETS (8-19): New Jersey, which is 3-7 in its last 10 games, has struggled mightily since beating the Pistons. Deron Williams scored 34 points – including 17 in the fourth quarter – in the series opener. Jordan Farmar added 22 points off the bench and Kris Humphries had a game-high 16 rebounds. The Nets are 5-10 on the road this season.
ABOUT THE PISTONS (7-20): Detroit, which is 3-7 in its last 10 games, is looking to post its longest winning streak since rattling off a five-game run in December of 2009. The Pistons will also be looking for their 10th straight win at home over the Nets. Greg Monroe recorded his third straight double-double with 20 points and 12 rebounds in Wednesday’s win. Monroe has averaged 20.7 points and 13 boards during the Pistons' three straight wins. Detroit has won consecutive games at home and holds a 5-8 home court record this season.
BUZZER BEATERS:
1. The Pistons are averaging 49.3 points in the paint over their last three games.
2. Detroit’s Ben Gordon scored 14 points off the bench Wednesday after missing the previous 10 games with a sore left shoulder.
3. New Jersey (47.8) and Detroit (49) are last in opposition field-goal percentage.