Okay Pistons fans, I know it was tough to watch. I was there watching from the opening tip hoping for a more aggressive and passionate effort too. “There’s no way they will not bring it tonight” I thought. It’s the playoffs right?

Well again the game started off with more disjointed play and lack of passion. Rodney Stuckey seemingly was the only player interested in driving to the basket as everyone else settled for jumpers. The defense did nothing but allow Lebron to pad his stats for his MVP campaign.

With the Cavs now leading 2-0, what can we take from the current circumstance? I’d say that we should expect an entertaining game 3 as the series shifts to the “D” on Friday night.

Photo/Getty Images

Here’s what I think: as you all saw, the Cavs lead early in the fourth quarter 79-50 as they began resting their starters. The Pistons went with their bench players and suddenly like lightening the young and scrappy unit climbed back into contention cutting the once robust lead to seven, once the starters were reinstated the Cavs regained control.

So with the revelation that the starters, for whatever reason, can’t seem to compete for long stretches with these guys perhaps the second unit can provide the hustle and intensity needed to stay with this team?

It’s a bit obvious that the Cavs kinda put it on cruise in the fourth and I wonder if that is something that can be exploited.

Photo/Getty Images

Remember the 2006 series? Detroit was the league leading number one seed against the underdog Cavs. The Pistons won game one rather handily but, in game two Detroit lead by as much as 20 in the second half and the Cavs made a game of it. The Piston would hang on but the Cleveland team gained confidence and later went on to win the next three games before losing in seven.

It’s the playoffs and anything can happen. I’m just saying.

DIME went a step further for Need4Sheed readers….

After you finish reading the piece on Stuckey leave STUCKTACULAR in the comment section of the article with your correct E-Mail address and one lucky Pistons fan will win a copy of the magazine.

If that’s not STUCKTACULAR, I don’t know what is.

In honor of George Blaha’s induction into the Michigan Sports Hall of Fame on Monday, February 9, 2009, I’m dedicating this Pistons ticket giveaway to him.

One of the most recognizable sports personalities in Detroit and the NBA, George Blaha will begin his 33rd consecutive season as the television and radio play-by-play voice of the Pistons in 2008-09.

The “Voice of the Pistons” is now the longest tenured play-by-play broadcaster in the state of Michigan.

If you know Pistons basketball, you know George Blaha.

I’m sure I don’t have to tell you how much I adore the man, that’s why I would like you to honor the him for his knowledge, entertainment and the love for the Pistons he displays with every word he utters.

To win a pair of tickets to The Pistons.com Suite and an Ultimate Pistons Experience on Wednesday, February 4th, 2009 when the Pistons face Dwyane Wade and The Miami Heat, you have to do your best to pay tribute to George Blaha.

Do whatever it takes to honor George. You might win a pair of tickets to the game and maybe even meet the man himself.

Do your best Blaha play-by-play, write a poem about him, tell me why you appreciate him, or just surprise me.

Send your entries in by Sunday January 25th to – need4sheedcontest@gmail.com

All entries must have your submission with the following:

• Subject Line – George Blaha HOF
• Your Full Name
• Address
• Age
• Phone Number
• Email Address

Simple, right?

Thank You to The Pistons again for giving Pistons fans a one-of-a-kind opportunity.

Watching it over again, was I too hard on her? Another great piece I caught on tape when covering the Pistons pumping gas for their fans. Wait until you see Rip in action.