The New Orleans Pelicans edged out the Detroit Pistons 104-98 in today’s battle. It was Zion Williamson who led the way for the Pelicans to come out on top. However, the Pistons tried every tactic to stop the former no.1 overall pick. When the modern methods didn’t work, the Pistons turned back the clock. Notably, they used the tactics from the iconic championship-winning ‘Bad Boys’.

Back in the 1990s, the Eastern Conference was a cutthroat environment. And legendary point guard Isiah Thomas’ Pistons were a powerhouse team at the time. Termed the ‘Bad Boy’ Pistons, they made their reputation due to their violent on-court antics. In an era of hand-checking, the Pistons were relentlessly physical. They adopted the infamous ‘Jordan rules’ to stop Michael Jordan. It was a simple yet vicious tactic, to knock His Airness anytime he leaps the rim.

However, the Bad Boys died down after the roster disbanded. That was until tonight, as Alec Burks tackled Williamson to the ground to stop him from adding two points to the tally.

Pistons hack Zion Williamson

Despite being 284 pounds, Zion Williamson can launch over 40 inches into the air. His unique leaping ability allows him to control boards virtually over anybody. Likewise, the Pistons left the former Duke star unmarked in his most lethal spot, the paint.

Familiar with the territory, Williamson took a flight to finish the lob, but couldn’t get the shot off. The second chance opportunity was right in front with no Pistons players around him. As the 22-year-old All-Star went for the layup, Burks wrapped his hands around and threw him onto the floor.

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Several New Orleans Pelicans players took exception and charged at the veteran. Moreover, NBA Twitter felt they had seen the return of the Bad Boys with Burks’ savage defensive technique.

https://twitter.com/DueyJalen/status/1600671662789337089?s=20&t=vGzB2I7SJVDOb_B3LQjRNA

But even pulling him onto the floor couldn’t keep the Pistons from taking the upper hand. In the absence of Brandon Ingram, Williamson stepped up to make up for his scoring. The former ACC Player of The Year went off for 29 points and 12 rebounds in the Pelicans’ win. His contributions were crucial as CJ McCollum struggled in the night. Trey Murphy III notched in with 20 points to support his All-Star forward.

The Detroit Pistons starters shrunk on the road, combining for just 44 points. Saddiq Bey scored a team-high 24 points off the bench to keep the fight alive. However, their offense failed to show up against Williamson and Co.

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New Orleans Pelicans improved to 16-8 for the season while the Pistons go further into the ground, losing their 20th game of the season. After spending an entire season dealing with an injury, Zion Williamson seems to be back to prove the doubters wrong. If he manages to stay healthy, do you think New Orleans can be the underdogs this season? Let us know your views in the comments below.