Wolves gameday

Last update: January 14, 2007 - 7:05 PM

Preview: After losing consecutive games to opponents who had a combined 22-46 record, the Pistons scored only 81 points Saturday against a Boston team that was 12-23 when the night began. But at least that was enough to win, 81-73, behind Richard Hamilton's 22 points. No wonder coach Flip Saunders isn't happy with the way his club is playing. "I usually go to the dentist once a year," the former Wolves coach said. "This is like having a root canal every night."

Player to watch: Point guard Chauncey Billups has not played since Dec. 29 because of a strained right calf, but reportedly is close to returning. So Minnesota has prepared as if Billups will participate, then will adjust if he doesn't. Before sitting out the past seven games, the former Wolves guard was averaging 18.0 points and 8.1 assists.

Numbers: Detroit's Flip Murray has averaged 35.9 minutes since Billups got hurt; he scored 21 points against the Celtics. ... The Wolves managed only 157 points, total, in two games against the Pistons last season.

Injuries: Pistons guard Lindsey Hunter is out because of a sore right Achilles' tendon. ... Wolves guard Marko Jaric still is waiting for his sprained right thumb to heal to the point that it can't easily be injured again.

STEVE ASCHBURNER

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