Scouting report: Celtics at Pistons

TONIGHT - 7:30, The Palace; Auburn Hills, Mich. TV - CSN. Radio - WEEI-AM (850).

THE NUMBERS

4: Celtics [team stats]’ losses in their last six games.

8: Celtics’ losses in their first 33 games.

3-1: Celtics’ record against the Pistons last season.

WHO’S HURT

For the Celtics, G Marquis Daniels (left thumb surgery) is out and F Kevin Garnett (hyperextended right knee) is doubtful. For the Pistons, G Will Bynum (left ankle sprain) is out, G Richard Hamilton (upset stomach) and C Chris Wilcox (sore back) are probable, and G Ben Gordon (strained right groin) and F Tayshaun Prince (sore left knee) are gametime decisions.

WHO’S HOT

For the Celtics, C Kendrick Perkins [stats] has scored in double figures in nine straight games.

WHO’S NOT

Pistons G Rodney Stuckey has made just two of his last 25 3-point attempts.

BOTTOM LINE

Against the reeling Pistons, the Celtics need to come out with early intensity and then back it up with smart play later. The Pistons have injury problems of their own, and coming off a bad home loss to Dallas, the Celts have something to prove to themselves and their fans.