Pistons & Celtics Battle!

In the past there were many infamous battles between the Celtics and Pistons, playoff and regular season. Laimbeer taking on Bird, knocking McHale and other Celtics to the hardwood. Isiah getting into the Chief, Robert Parish' face. The famous Bird steal and pass to Dennis Johnson as he drove for the layup to win the game. You've heard the play by play call, many times.

Wednesday night featured the 2007 version of this battle, and an early season test for both clubs. It featured a battle of UCONN stars in Rip Hamilton and Ray Allen on opposing teams. Also featured were two big men in KV and Rasheed. Paul Pierce and Chauncey Billups also starred in the 2k version. This would also provide an early test for the Celtics as they battled one of the true NBA contenders in the Pistons.

Both teams came out hot in the first quarter matching baskets. Rajon Rondo was an early surprise star as Hubie Brown noted that he was shocking the Pistons at how easy he could get into the paint and score. Definitely surprising, as the Pistons have been noted as one of the top defensive squads for several years now.

The Pistons and Celtics played at a generally even pace, with no huge leads or runs. The Pistons finally started to climb ahead in the fourth and found themselves up 6 with under 2 minutes left. But after an Eddie House 3, superstar Ray Allen nailed a tying 3 point shot. With the game tied, KG came up with the ball with 5 seconds left, after stripping it from Chauncey Billups' hands on a layup. Paul Pierce missed a quick turn around jumper. Then with just about 2 seconds to go, Billups came up big. The guard gave a great fake to Tony Allen, drawing a 2 shot foul. Billups of course hit both big free throws and the Pistons handed the Celtics their first home loss of the season.

The Celtics still look good, but the Pistons proved why they are a top contender. Solid shooting, a team that's been together for several years now and a great defense. As the Celtics move forward they will continue to gel and acquire that defensive presence. And this was just round 1. The Pistons and Celts will meet twice more prior to any playoff matchups.