But the bigger problem has been the Pistons' soft perimeter play. Too often, opposing guards and small forwards have been able to penetrate into the lane. Once that happens, either Laettner or Mills is forced to come over and help. That is where they get a lot of fouls. We have to improve our individual defense.
Guys have to be able to lock in and stop their man.
As for the X-factor label, it is something that Laettner put on himself earlier in the season. The whole team is the X-factor. Team tragedy Dave Wissel, younger brother of Pistons advance pro scout Scott Wissel, was killed Saturday when struck by a car while he was out walking. Dave Wissel was 33. Scott was devastated, as you can imagine.