Detroit Pistons looking to avenge November loss to the Lakers
Lakers power forward Julius Randle cuts through the defense of Pistons center Andre Drummond, left, and forward Anthony Tolliver during a Nov. 15 game at Staples Center.
The Lakers (3-16) got one of their biggest wins of the season on Nov. 15 at home against the Detroit Pistons (11-9). For a team that has only three victories on the year, every win is a big one.
The Pistons are one of 10 teams with winning records in the Eastern Conference, fighting for what will be eight postseason berths.
They’ll play the Lakers today at home without guard Brandon Jennings, who is nearing a return from a torn Achilles. Former Lakers shooting guard Jodie Meeks is also out with a foot injury.
The Lakers are generally healthy, although rookie Larry Nance Jr. is dealing with some knee swelling.
Key matchup
Pistons center Andre Drummond has been tremendous this season, averaging 18.5 points with 17.0 rebounds a game.
That’s just about what he gave the Lakers in November, 17 points with 17 rebounds, but it wasn’t enough for a Detroit victory.
The Lakers will counter Drummond with Roy Hibbert and reserve Brandon Bass. Hibbert scored 12 points with even rebounds and two blocks against the Pistons. Bass gave the Lakers six points and three rebounds.
Drummond played almost 41 minutes, Hibbert logged 28 and Bass 20. If the Lakers’ pair can combine again for 18 points and 10 rebounds, that might be enough for the team to survive Drummond again.
X-factor
Kobe Bryant played one of his best games of the season against Detroit, scoring 17 points with nine assists and eight rebounds. The Lakers seemed to thrive with Bryant looking to pass ahead of scoring, although he did get his 19 shots up (hitting six).
Jordan Clarkson also had a big night with 17 points as well.
The Lakers did a solid job defensively against Reggie Jackson, who scored nine with just three assists and five turnovers.
Reserve Spencer Dinwiddie was more of a challenge, scoring 17 with four assists.
Outlook
The Pistons won’t take the Lakers lightly after falling at Staples Center. Put the Lakers down for a second-straight loss after their defeat in Atlanta on Friday to the Hawks.
Email Eric Pincus at Pincus at eric.pincus@gmail.com follow him on Twitter @EricPincus
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