Win-Win? Pistons Play Best Ball of Season in 1st Game Without Josh Smith

[Rake2204]

Could waiving Josh Smith end up being mutually beneficial? It was only the Pacers, but the Pistons looked outstanding tonight - hitting the century mark with over 10 minutes left in the fourth and dropping 119 altogether.

They'll come down and still suck in the long term, but it's hard to believe they'll be as bad as they were with Smith.

Sidenote, it looks like Smith's doing well in Houston tonight. I'm torn, because I have no real reason to have a problem with him, but I guess a part of me wants to be vindicated for how badly I've been saying he was playing in Detroit. I suppose his numbers in Motown are vindication enough.

[navy]

Definitely a win win.

More room to grow in Detroit and Houston gets a good bench piece.

[sundog67]

I was trying to look at the bright side the entire time he was here in the D. He's obviously talented and physically gifted, but I think people here held their breath (or straight up boo'd him) every time he took a jumper. He toned it down this season and showed his value in rebounds and dishes but it seemed like his shooting actually got worse. Couple that with his iffy decision making and his constant pouting... I was happy to see him go.

Pistons looked pretty rejuvenated tonight...it doesnt say too much given the record but the enthusiasm and attitude seemed to be there. Funny enough, Drummond's body language is usually a pretty good barometer for how games will go. When he's smiling and goofing around the Pistons seem to flow and do relatively well. Good night for him tonight too, he's starting to convert on his post-up jump hooks and even his free throws are improving.