Pistons G Hamilton to play Friday

May 30, 2008 - 4:48 PM AUBURN HILLS, Michigan (Ticker) -- Detroit Pistons shooting guard Richard Hamilton will play Friday night in Game Six of the Eastern Conference finals against the Boston Celtics.

Hamilton suffered a strained right elbow Wednesday in Game Five and had been listed as questionable for Friday's contest.

But after participating in Friday morning's shootaround, Hamilton declared himself healthy for Detroit's must-win matchup with the Celtics, who own a 3-2 series lead.

"This is now or never," Hamilton told reporters. "I have no choice. This is do or die."

Hamilton left Wednesday's 106-102 setback late in the fourth quarter, clutching his arm after getting tangled with Boston's Ray Allen during a rebound.

The Pistons' leading scorer, Hamilton left TD Banknorth Garden with his arm in a sling. But X-rays came back negative.

"Once I get out there and the adrenaline is going, I'll be fine," Hamilton said. "I told the guys today, 'Don't look at me as a handicap out there.' I am ready - I am good to go."

A three-time All-Star, Hamilton is averaging 21.7 points during this postseason.