Tough Defense Needed To Win NBA Title

By Scott McLean

NBA Scorers usually don't have much fun playing they Detroit Pistons. During the last few years, the Pistons have outclassed the rest of the Eastern Conference.

As fans witnessed a few days ago, they had no problem shutting down the Miami Heat in the fourth quarter.

Tough defense is what makes Detroit a favorite to reach the Finals and possibly win another championship.

Outstanding defense is a trait of championship teams. Contenders play great defense, pretenders don't.

Western Conference teams generally follow that rule. The West will be won with defensive muscle, especially around the basket.

In the playoffs, and I'm talking predictions here, the teams with physical big men are going to have the advantage. A huge advantage.

This writer is not the first to make the San Antonio Spurs a favorite, primarily because of Tim Duncan, but also due to the unselfish play of the whole team, excellent ball handling, great passing and leadership from guards Tony Parker and Manu Ginobli.

The San Antonio backcourt is probably the only one in the NBA capable of matching up with Detroit's All Star guards Chauncey Billups and Rip Hamilton.

Don't count out Steve Nash and the Phoenix Suns or Dirk Nowitzki and the Dallas Mavericks.

Of course NBA fans know the two superstars used to play together on the Mavericks team. One or both of the teams will play the Spurs in the playoffs.

More next time on what could happen when these powerhouse teams face each other.