NBA Power Rankings: Spurs, Warriors Prepare For Second-Round Test In Playoffs

Apr 22, 2016; Memphis, TN, USA; San Antonio Spurs forward Kawhi Leonard (2) steals the ball from Memphis Grizzlies guard Jordan Farmar (3) as guard Tony Allen (9) defends in game three of the first round of the NBA Playoffs at FedExForum. Spurs defeated Grizzlies 96-87. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 22, 2016; Memphis, TN, USA; San Antonio Spurs forward Kawhi Leonard (2) steals the ball from Memphis Grizzlies guard Jordan Farmar (3) as guard Tony Allen (9) defends in game three of the first round of the NBA Playoffs at FedExForum. Spurs defeated Grizzlies 96-87. Mandatory Credit: Nelson Chenault-USA TODAY Sports
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Apr 22, 2016; Auburn Hills, MI, USA; Detroit Pistons head coach Stan Van Gundy talks with guard Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (5) during the fourth quarter against the Cleveland Cavaliers in game three of the first round of the NBA Playoffs at The Palace of Auburn Hills. Mandatory Credit: Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 22, 2016; Auburn Hills, MI, USA; Detroit Pistons head coach Stan Van Gundy talks with guard Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (5) during the fourth quarter against the Cleveland Cavaliers in game three of the first round of the NBA Playoffs at The Palace of Auburn Hills. Mandatory Credit: Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports

14. Detroit Pistons (0-4)

I thought the Detroit Pistons would be able to steal a game or two against the Cleveland Cavaliers. I was wrong. Needless to say, this young Pistons core gained some invaluable playoff experience in the process of being bounced by The King.

They had some mental breakdowns in key moments and had plenty of opportunities to steal a game or two in this series. The ball just didn’t bounce their way. But, often times, that’s the difference between the more experience playoff teams and the ones that are getting their first taste of the tournament.

We need to keep an eye on this team moving forward. They’re going to be a force to reckon with in the near future. The one negative thing that was highlighted during Detroit’s playoff run was how behind Andre Drummond‘s offensive game is compared to his defense. It’s quite disturbing how raw he is on that side of the ball.

Next: Houston Rockets