Pistons vs. Nets: A Look Back at the 2004 Playoff Series

Rematch of the 2003 Eastern Conference Finals

Game 1: Nets steal home-court advantage

The New Jersey Nets, led by Jason Kidd, Richard Jefferson, and Kenyon Martin, stole home-court advantage in Game 1 with a 102-92 victory at the Palace of Auburn Hills. Kidd finished with a triple-double, Jefferson scored 24 points, and Martin added 22 points and 12 rebounds.

Game 2: Pistons even the series

In Game 2, the Pistons responded with a 78-67 victory at home, tying the series at 1-1. Chauncey Billups led the Pistons with 21 points, while Rasheed Wallace added 18 points and 10 rebounds.

Game 3: Nets regain home-court advantage

The Nets regained home-court advantage in Game 3 with a 97-86 victory at the Meadowlands Arena. Kidd once again led the Nets with 25 points, while Jefferson and Martin each scored 20 points.

Game 4: Pistons tie the series again

The Pistons tied the series again in Game 4 with a 96-88 victory at the Meadowlands Arena. Billups led the Pistons with 26 points, while Wallace added 22 points and 11 rebounds.

Game 5: Nets take 3-2 lead

The Nets took a 3-2 lead in the series with a 103-89 victory at the Palace of Auburn Hills. Kidd led the Nets with 24 points, while Jefferson added 22 points and Martin added 20 points.

Game 6: Pistons force Game 7

The Pistons forced a Game 7 with a 98-85 victory at the Meadowlands Arena. Billups led the Pistons with 27 points, while Wallace added 22 points and 10 rebounds.

Game 7: Pistons win the series

In Game 7, the Pistons won the series with a 90-82 victory at the Palace of Auburn Hills. Billups led the Pistons with 22 points, while Wallace added 20 points and 12 rebounds.

Conclusion

The Pistons' victory in the 2004 Eastern Conference Finals was a major upset, as the Nets were the defending NBA champions. The Pistons went on to win the NBA championship that season, defeating the Los Angeles Lakers in five games.