So what can we expect in game 5? With the series tied 2-2, I think we can expect both teams to finally play with a sense of urgency in the same game. A best-of-seven series is now a best-of-three with a whole new set of circumstances to deal with than before game 1.

One player who played with a sense of urgency in game 4 was Antonio McDyess of the Pistons, who had playoff highs of 21 points and 16 rebounds. The same however can not be said for the Celtics Big Three. The trio of Pierce, Allen, and Garnett combined to shoot 11 for 38 from the field in game 4. The Celtics shot only 32% as a team. As the series shifts back to Boston, the Pistons are starting to get their floor leader back into the flow.

Chauncey Billups is starting to come around after being out for two weeks with a strained hamstring. He had 10 points and 7 assists in game 4 and his coach feels like he’s on his way. “I think the leg is fine; I think he just needs to get his timing back. If you notice he’s playing better late in games, and I think some of that is just from getting into a rhythm”, Saunders said. Good news for the Pistons and their backers not such for Celtics fans.

The Celtics were a solid bet at home all season , but are just 6-4 ats at home in the playoffs. They are just 2-7 ats the last 9 overall. The Pistons know what it takes to win in Boston, having done so twice already this season. And even though the Celtics finally won a game on the road, for them to go on the road and win in a win or go home situation would be highly unlikely.

This one has the makings of a real Eastern Conference throwback game of the 80’s making the under a real possibility. Lines makers have held steady, posting the same total from game two in Boston. Even though that game went over the total, the under is still 7-1 the last 8 meetings. The road team is 9-3 ats the last 12 meetings while the Pistons are just 3-13 ats their last 13 conference finals games. Good luck to all.