Game One: Pistons Pull Away in the end

As feared, the Bucks could hang around in the first game of their playoff series with the Detroit Pistons only so long as the Pistons allowed them to. The Bucks did not embarrass themselves in Detroit Sunday night, but they didn't come close to winning either. Therein lies the conundrum. The Bucks simply cannot play their ordinary game and hope to win. They must play way, way out of their asses just to stay in each game, and then hope the Pistons give the sort of halfhearted effort they displayed at times tonight. That's the Bucks only chance.

Some things that can be changed, however. Michael Redd cannot force shots of the type he was forcing tonight. A one-legged, fadeaway kick shot has next to no chance of going in the basket. Its irresponsible of him to take such shots under any circumstances. As a leader, he must be able to diagnose a game better than he did tonight. He has to realize the defense is keyed on him and use that knowledge to set his mates up for easy baskets. Airballs score no points, Mike.

Second, Bobby Simmons must show up. 2-for-8 won't cut it. He has provided subpar performance from the 3 spot all year. Its time to pay the check, Vito. You owe us some ball, and now is the time to bring it. Performances like tonight are a joke. If Kukoc were healthy, Simmons would have been planted on the pines early.

Finally, some good points. I thought Bogut was quite impressive in his postseason debut. We poked fun at the way Wallace blocked his shots so easily, but he actually did something about it. He used his body and he used angles quite effectively. Most importantly, he never backed down from anyone. He's a keeper.

TJ was, for the most part, under control. He struggled at times, but he had a fire and passion I haven't seen from him before. He has turned a corner.

More on this game, and a look forward to Game Two in my next post.