Don't get excited...
Remember, all throughout the playoffs the Lakers have had one or two games in each series where they didn't show up. Last night was one of those games.
One thing which struck me as odd is the interview with Bryant at halftime. He kept saying how they weren't prepared for what Detroit was doing on defense. They'd not seen it before. What!!?? The Lakers don't have scounts? They don't watch video? Didn't seem as though the Pistons were doing anything any different than they've been doing. I don't get that.
Also, as was mentioned, the Lakers, overall, played pretty badly. The defense for the Pistons was good but not THAT good. When you dribble the ball downcourt, one pass (at most) then shoot a bad shot, that is hardly great defense. That's bad offense. Also, how many wide open shots did the Lakers miss? I wouldn't hold out for that happening again in game two.
I don't love the Lakers, hate the Pistons or anything. In fact, I really don't care who wins this but I think both teams have gotten more credit than they deserve. Detroit plays good defense but let's not put them so high. It's not like they've beaten a bunch of scoring juggernaughts. The Lakers have a great team but have shown all season they get bored and don't show up. I still think the Lakers will win but, as you saw last night, it may be a longer series than people thought.
btw, anyone notice how the contrast seemed to be way off on the broadcast and there seemed to be issues with focusing?
The Rickter
but I l know I am putting my hopes too high 
Pistons can enjoy this one but I expect Lakers to come out strong next time.
