After six games, including one that went to three overtimes, the Nets and Pistons need three days off so they can be at their best for Game 7, NBA commissioner David Stern said yesterday.

Speaking at a press conference to announce the creation of the Dave DeBusschere Cardiovascular Center at St. Vincent's Midtown Hospital, Stern defended the playoff schedule, particularly the decision to give the Nets and Pistons three off days before playing Game 7 Thursday at The Palace of Auburn Hills outside Detroit. Game 6 was Sunday night at the Meadowlands.

"I think it's great," Stern said. "It gives them the opportunity to get back into what passes for full strength this time of the year."