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Jazz looks to snap losing streak against Webber, Pistons

Jan 17, 2007 - 5:21 PM Utah (24-14) at Detroit (21-15) 7:30 pm EST

AUBURN HILLS, Michigan (Ticker) -- Chris Webber could make his debut with his new team Wednesday when the Detroit Pistons host the Utah Jazz in a matchup of struggling squads.

A five-time All-Star power forward, Webber was signed by the Pistons after clearing waivers from the Philadelphia 76ers, who bought out the remaining 1 1/2 years on his contract.

The Michigan native has been hampered by ankle and foot injuries this season and is averaging a career-low 11.0 points and 8.3 rebounds. He said Tuesday that he has been working out and would add depth to a frontcourt that needs it.

The Pistons may also get a boost in their backcourt with the possible return of All-Star guard Chauncey Billups, who has been out since December 29 with a calf injury. He returned to practice earlier this week and could be available Wednesday. Detroit has lost three of four games and seven of 10 since an 18-9 start.

The Jazz began a four-game road trip with Monday's 114-111 loss to Washington in which they were victimized by Gilbert Arenas, who scored 51 points and made a 3-pointer at the buzzer.

It was the season-high fourth straight loss for Utah, which is allowing 110 points per game during its slide. The Jazz also wasted a big game from Mehmet Okur, who scored a career-high 38 points.

A former Piston, Okur had a big hand - literally - in Utah's 103-101 home win over Detroit on November 6, its third straight in the series. He had 23 points, 10 rebounds and a game-saving block on Richard Hamilton at the buzzer.