The idea was simple for the Pistons, give the ball to Rip Hamilton and jump on the young Sixers quickly. The Pistons did just that as they raced to a 18 point lead after the first. Clearly a tone setter, the rest of the way proved to be too much for the 76ers to overcome as the Pistons aggressiveness overtook the Sixers at home. The backcourt of Chauncey Billups and Rip Hamilton combined for 44 points. Tayshaun Prince had 12 points and 7 rebounds.
The Sixers again lacked strong offensive punch as Andre Iguodala finished with 16 points. He averaged only 13.2 points and shot 33% from the field. Andre Miller had another bad shooting night going 4-16 from the field and only scoring 11 points. Miller also scored below his regular season scoring average and assist in this series. The Sixers needed their best two players to be what they were in the regular season. Unfortunately they both feel short and the Sixers will now go into an important offseason trying to figure out what pieces are needed to add to this developing roster. Andre Iguodala will be a restricted free agent so if another team offers Iguodala a contract, the Sixers will be able to match it. Obviously Andre Iguodala did not help his status by having a subpar playoff series. Another consistent offensive weapon is needed in order for the Sixers to be able to produce consistently night in and night out. The Sixers made good strives this season and with a surprising playoff appearance, the future of the Sixers looks encouraging. Hopefully the Sixers will add the right pieces in order to become one of the top teams in the Eastern Conference.
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