I always have mixed feelings about playing teams like Detroit. While it will be nice to get a blowout win (and play four strong quarters), a tight game like this is certainly more entertaining, particularly for those of us in the stands. I'm one who takes a win, however, regardless of the form. I'm not convinced that how a team plays one night has much bearing at all on how it plays the next on any systematic basis.
I'm a bit confused by Detroit. My impression is that it is not a bad team; has some definite talent. Prince still appears to have it; Hamilton is down some but still good. I would expect it to have a better record. So what's its problem?
Interesting that Ben Gordon rode the bench down the stretch. McGrady can be a real contributor, I think, if he plays within himself these days. Can't put up his old stats, but could be a consistent triple double threat given his multiple talents. Maybe a Grant Hill type resurrection is not out of the question for him (conceding that Grant is a shell of his former self, but still capable of solid contribution).