Early Concerns About the Allen Iverson Gambit

When The Detroit Pistons traded for Allen Iverson, they were hoping to add a potent offensive threat to their lineup. Allen Iverson is not known for his defense. He has built his reputation by being a prolific scorer. Allen Iverson has the scoring averages to prove it. He simply knows how to put the basketball in the hoop. His scoring never has been a concern.

The Detroit Piston fans may be waiting for the ‘real’ Allen Iverson.

In a home game against the Boston Celtics, the Pistons lost: 88 - 76. What is notable is the box score. Allen Iverson played over thirty one minutes. In the first half, with Allen Iverson in the lineup, the Detroit Pistons scored twenty nine (29) points. That is a first half total. Detroit scored ten (10) points in the second quarter:

link: Boston Celtics / Detroit Pistons box score

This may be an adjustment period for Allen Iverson and his team mates. However, ten point quarters are disconcerting. Perhaps Allen Iverson will work it out in practice. He will help the Piston offense. It is just a matter of patience and temporary head shaking for the Detroit fans.

Catherine Forsythe