Detroit Pistons Team Report - April 11

(Basketball News) - The Detroit Pistons will attempt lock up the Central Division title this evening, when they tangle with the arch-rival Chicago Bulls at the United Center.

Detroit currently owns a five-game advantage over the Bulls with just six games to play. The Pistons are assured either the second or fourth seed in the East playoffs, as they can’t catch top-seeded Miami and could only fall behind Chicago.

The Pistons have won six consecutive games after defeating the Shaquille O’Neal-less Heat, 80-72, at AmericanAirlines Arena on Sunday. Richard Hamilton scored 17 points and Tayshaun Prince added 16 in the victory.

Ben Wallace had 12 points and 14 rebounds for the Central Division-leading Pistons, who have won 12 of their last 16 games. Chauncey Billups tacked on 10 points in the contest, while Antonio McDyess added eight points and eight rebounds.

Detroit shot just 37.7 percent from the field, but held Miami to 34.6 shooting in the contest. The Pistons outscored the Heat, 22-14, at the foul line and matched their rebounding total (48).

The Pistons have not been at their best on the road this season, losing six of their last nine road games. Detroit has tallied a 20-18 mark in foreign buildings this season.

Chicago has won two of three meetings between these teams this season after dropping the nine previous contests in the set. Detroit has won nine straight and 12 of its last 13 at Chicago.

Following tonight’s contest, Detroit will return home for their next three contests. The Pistons host Orlando (Wednesday), Milwaukee (Friday) and Cleveland (Sunday) during the homestand.