Defensive DNA: 2004 vs. Now

Jan 23, 2026 8:39 PM

This year, the Detroit Pistons offer the most imposing defense in the NBA by a variety of metrics, and everyone in Motown knows that they need a complete two-way game to earn playing time this season. To that effect, the Pistons are the only squad in the league this year to hold seven straight teams to 105 points or less, which underscores the team's relentless approach on that end of the court. 

But at what point will this year's Pistons defense challenge that of previous legendary Detroit squads? The Pistons defense that helped propel Detroit to the NBA Championship in 2004 punished teams on a nightly basis with Ben Wallace anchoring the post with Rasheed Wallace always lurking for a timely swat himself. 

If you had one possession to stop the opposing team from scoring, which defensive unit would you trot out onto the court? 

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