Knicks-Pistons Preview

It's always a bit of a surprise when the Detroit Pistons lose at home, but the nature of their last defeat made it more shocking.

The Pistons look to get back on track after a poor effort in the opener of their four-game homestand when they continue it Wednesday against the New York Knicks.

All four of the opponents on this homestand for Detroit (8-5) failed to make the playoffs last season, but the Pistons were blown out Sunday by Minnesota, 106-80 as they shot a season-low 37.0 percent from the field.

"My top three guards were 5-for-27, but they've played enough basketball that they know they can't get frustrated," Detroit coach Michael Curry said. "Add in Rasheed Wallace, and it is 8-for-37. You aren't going to win many games like that."

In order for the Pistons to avoid losing three straight for the first time this season, they need Allen Iverson to bounce back from a difficult night. Iverson made 3 of 11 shots for nine points.

"I stunk up the gym tonight," Iverson said. "I couldn't do anything right on the offensive end. It was one of the nights you wish you never have, but they happen."

Detroit is 4-5 since acquiring Iverson from Denver, and the club feels there is still a period of adjustment with the former league MVP. Richard Hamilton, who'd grown accustomed to playing with the now-departed Chauncey Billups, is averaging 14.6 points on 36.3 percent shooting while playing with Iverson.

"It's tough but we have no choice but to go back to the drawing board and figure things out," Hamilton said.

New York (7-7) is also getting used to some changes in the wake of last week's two trades of Jamal Crawford to Golden State and Zach Randolph to the Los Angeles Clippers. Al Harrington, who came over from the Warriors, and Tim Thomas, acquired from the Clippers, both played their first games with the Knicks on Tuesday in a 119-101 loss to Cleveland.

Cuttino Mobley, who also came from the Clippers, isn't yet available for New York since he is undergoing additional testing for a possible heart condition.

Thomas had 16 points and Harrington scored 13 for the Knicks, who fell behind 67-38 at halftime and never seriously threatened in the second half.

New York also lost leading scorer Nate Robinson after he strained his groin in the second quarter. He is doubtful for Wednesday.

"I'll be back in no time," Robinson said. "I'm not the kind of guy who wants to sit here and be hurt. I hate it."

Defense continues to be a problem for the Knicks under new coach Mike D'Antoni. They are allowing an average of 107.5 points -- the most in the NBA.

The Pistons and Knicks split four meetings last season. New York ended a 10-game losing streak at the Palace of Auburn Hills with a 98-94 win on April 8, when Detroit played its starters sparingly with its playoff position secure.