5 Things to Keep an Eye on: Sixers at Pistons - FanHouse - AOL Sports Blog

In another of our continuing series, five things to keep an eye out for tonight in the Sixers at Pistons game.

1. Let's Get Technical: The Sixers may be the best description of "scrappy" of any team in the playoffs. And I think we're all familiar with Rasheed Wallace and his, ahem, antics. Though Wallace has mellowed as he's matured, this has a pretty high potential to get nasty really quick. Keep an eye out to see who establishes themselves on that front and who loses their temper.

2. Youth Versus Youth And Experience: The Sixers are a very young team, led by Andre Iguodala and rookie Thaddeus Young. The Pistons, meanwhile, have a core of players stacked with veterans, but where they've made strides is in a very young bench. Aaron Affalo, Amir Johnson, and Jason Maxiell have all gotten quality minutes this season, and can play with just about anyone. The Sixers are going to have to play with both poise and energy for a full 48 to keep this thing close.

3. World, Andre Miller. Andre Miller, World: Miller's been explosive for the Sixers this year, averaging 17 points and 7 assists this season. He's got a tall order in this series against Chauncey Billups, but if he can use his speed in transition, he should be able to find some success. If the Pistons put Rip Hamilton on him, however, there could be issues.

4. Don't Expect A Barnburner: How about the best defensive team in the league in points allowed (Pistons) versus the seventh best defensive team? How about the 23rd team in offense (Sixers) versus the 17th best (Pistons) ? If you've seen these two teams play, you know how this could end. Painstakingly slow, unbearably sloppy, and unfashionably low scoring. If you love missed shots and great rebounding, this is the one for you.

5. Who's Got Sheed?: Put Samuel Dalembert on him and he's got too much range. Put Young or Evans on him and he's got too much size. Sheed presents the largest mismatch of his series for the Sixers. You almost have to assume a double team, but with the Pistons' shooters, you have to assume that means you're doomed. The Sixers best chance may be pushing the ball and getting out in transition.