Pistons in Toronto for Amir Johnson Show

by Matt W on Apr 13, 2007 6:20 PM CDT Comment 8 comments

OK, "Amir Johnson Show" might be overly optimistic, but it certainly seems like he's going to play a lot. Chauncey Billups is out as a precaution, and Flip Saunders apparently considered starting Tayshaun Prince at point and Johnson at small forward -- from A. Sherrod Blakely's pre-game blog:

Saunders said the reason to sit Chauncey had to do with his right thigh bruise, which is still somewhat tight.

"He's a little bit tight. He could probably play, but there's no reason to take any chances on that," Saunders said.

As for Davis, putting him on the inactive list was a way to activate Ronald Dupree who has been a solid practice player.

Saunders said Tayshaun Prince would probably start the game at the point, and he's considering having Amir Johnson start at the small forward spot. Flip's still got time to change his mind, but it seems that's the direction he's leaning.

It didn't happen -- the ball just tipped, Flip Murray's at point and Johnson on the bench -- but still, it's probably a sign that Saunders has been talking the young fella up. Leaving Dale Davis inactive not only opens up a spot for Dupree but also ensures there's one less big man in Johnson's way. Hope you're watching -- I'm excited. As usual, leave you thoughts in the comments.

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YES — Amir Johnson is in the game early.

by Matt Watson on Apr 13, 2007 6:38 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Carlos Delfino, Jason Maxiell and Amir Johnson are all on the floor at the same time — how can the other players even breathe when they’re surrounded by all that potential?

by Matt Watson on Apr 13, 2007 6:49 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

lol. I want them to give it to amir and Delfino and just them do their thing.

by Matt Gibson on Apr 13, 2007 7:42 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Ok, so I knew I shouldn’t have believed it when they said less minutes for the starters…

about the only guy not playing a lot is Sheed…

More Amir, less old guys to risk getting hurt.

by Boney on Apr 13, 2007 7:45 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Well, that was an ugly ending (the entire fourth, really), but I’m glad they let the bench stick it out.

by Matt Watson on Apr 13, 2007 8:47 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Not trying to be negative, but he didn’t look any bigger than the original measure of 6’9" to me. Anyone with thoughts on that? Otherwise, solidly athletic play on the scoop and score and 1, and some decent minutes for our favorite Sioux Falls Skyforce stud.

by Michael on Apr 13, 2007 9:43 PM CDT reply actions 0 recs

Michael: I just checked the DVR to confirm, but he’s definitely as tall as Rasheed Wallace. Coming back from commercial around the eight-minute mark in the second quarter, you can see Rasheed and Chauncey giving Amir advice, and Amir can look Rasheed straight in the eye.

by Matt Watson on Apr 14, 2007 3:40 AM CDT reply actions 0 recs