I expected the Spurs to lose Game 3, and they didn't disappoint. However, they lost it in a way that produced several questions. For example, what kind of shape will Manu Ginobili be in tonight? Will Tim Duncan step up and dominate the paint like he did in Game 1? Is it time to question Bruce Bowen's impact on defense when guarding Rip Hamilton? Are we going to see the high-tempo Spurs that were in Game 1 and 2, or the laxadaisial Spurs that floundered in the second half of Game 3?
This could be the game that defines the rest of the playoffs. Once again, the Pistons have placed themselves in a must-win situation. Ben Wallace has to be the defensive monster he was throughout Game 3, which means keeping Tim Duncan pinned down and unleashing a beating to any Spur that even thinks about driving the lane. The moment Parker and Manu start driving the lane recklessly and making baskets is the moment the Pistons blow this game.
Rip Hamilton has to continue his offensive production. If he has a bad game, the Pistons have a bad game. Chauncey Billups, no matter what kind of streak he gets in, can't do it alone. And we're still waiting for Rasheed Wallace to have a 15+ point game and stop being a distraction and a letdown for the Pistons. I know it's hard for him to do, but he must keep his emotions in check and place his eyes on the basket.
These questions will be answered tonight. See ya then.