RSS Pistons Team Notes

[Detroit Pistons]

Submit your questions for The Pindown: A Detroit Pistons Podcast

Send in your questions now for this week’s episode of The Pindown: A Detroit Pistons Podcast to discuss everything Pistons. Submit your question to the comments section here or on X/Twitter to @TheRealWesD3 and/or @blakesilverman.

Join us live on Saturday morning for the show where we’ll recap the Pistons’ recent stretch of games. Does Cade Cunningham have a real shot of winning the MVP with the recent absence of Shai Gilgeous-Alexander? What are you taking away from the loss to the Spurs? Which Eastern Conference team scares you the most in the playoffs?

Plus, The Pindown has a phone line where you can leave a message and hear your voice on the show. Call (313) 355-2717 and leave us a voicemail with your question. Please try to keep the message around 45 seconds or less so we can fit everyone into the show.

The podcast will be uploaded to all audio platforms the following morning.

The Pindown: A Detroit Pistons Podcast Vitals:​

When: Saturday February 28 at 10:30 a.m. ET

Where: Detroit Bad Boys YouTube Channel

How to submit questions:

• Detroit Bad Boys Website: Comment section of the weekly Pindown episode articles.
• Call (313) 355-2717 and leave us a voicemail with your question. Please try to keep the message to 45 seconds or less.
• Twitter: @detroitbadboys, @blakesilverman or @therealwesd3
• YouTube: Chat section of The Pindown live recording — Subscribe here

As always, leave any questions or topics you want to be discussed in the comment section below.

Source: https://www.detroitbadboys.com/detr...ons-for-the-pindown-a-detroit-pistons-podcast

 

[Detroit Pistons]

Pistons vs. Thunder Discussion: Game Time, TV, Odds, and More

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK - APRIL 2: Ausar Thompson #9 of the Detroit Pistons drives to the basket during the game against the Oklahoma City Thunder on April 2, 2025 at Paycom Center in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE(Photo by Zach Beeker/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

The Detroit Pistons are looking to rebound after a disappointing loss against the San Antonio Spurs on Monday. Facing Oklahoma City tonight might seem like being out of the frying pan and into the fire, but it actually does represent a bit of a reprieve and potential get right game for the Pistons. Because the Pistons aren’t playing the Thunder, the Pistons are playing the Thunders’ backups. Very good backups, mind you, but backups nonetheless.

Sitting out for the Thunder tonight are: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jalen Williams, Chet Holmgren, Isaiah Hartenstein, Alex Caruso, and Ajay Mitchell. The Pistons will only be missing Isaiah Stewart, who remains out with his suspension.

It won’t be a cake walk — Cason Wallace is a great all-around player, Isaiah Joe is a heck of a shooter, and Lu Dort can defend anywhere. But the Thunder will be undersized, and Jalen Duren might be looking to feast after a hard-fought matchup against Victor Wembanyama. Cade Cunningham, too, is coming off a terrible game against the Spurs. I’d look for him to be active, particularly as a passer. There should be open driving lines and kick-out opportunities. I hope it’s a fun one at LCA.

Game Vitals​

When: 7:30 p.m.
Where: Little Caesars Arena, Detroit, Michigan
Watch: ESPN, Fan Duel Sports Network Detroit
Odds: Pistons -10.5

Projected Lineups​

Detroit Pistons (42-14)​

Cade Cunningham, Duncan Robinson, Ausar Thompson, Tobias Harris, Jalen Duren

Oklahoma City Thunder (45-14)​

Cason Wallace, Isaiah Joe, Lu Dort, Aaron Wiggins, Jaylin Williams

Source: https://www.detroitbadboys.com/detr...thunder-discussion-game-time-tv-odds-and-more

 

[Detroit Pistons]

Pistons vs Cavaliers preview: Send a message to Cleveland’s bigs

DETROIT, MI - OCTOBER 27: Jalen Duren #0 of the Detroit Pistons dunks the ball as Jarrett Allen #31 of the Cleveland Cavaliers plays defense during the game on October 27, 2025 at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE (Photo by Chris Schwegler/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

Unfortunately, these potential Detroit Pistons statement games keep turning into who’s available games. The Pistons take on the new-look Cleveland Cavaliers tonight, but this won’t be the team Detroit might see in a seven-game series.

Cleveland’s best player, Donovan Mitchell, is out tonight with a groin designation. Cleveland’s new addition, James Harden, is questionable with a thumb injury. Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley are critical Cavs pieces; they are two of the best rim protectors in basketball. While that’s true, those guards are the reason many see Cleveland as a legit threat.

Detroit will be without its backbone in Isaiah Stewart again tonight. With those pivotal pieces potentially missing tonight’s game, this probably isn’t a true statement game, but there is one message the rugged Pistons can send to Allen and Mobley.

Game Vitals​

Where: Little Caesars Arena, Detroit, Michigan

When: Friday, February 27, 7:00 pm EST

Watch: ESPN or Fan Duel Sports Network Detroit

Odds: Detroit (-6)

Analysis​

This could be another individual statement game from Jalen Duren. When the Oklahoma City Thunder ruled out Chet Holmgren and Isaiah Hartenstein on Wednesday, Duren did exactly what he was supposed to do on the offensive end.

Duren made the Thunder look like those 8th graders in his early hoop mixtape. Dominating Allen and Mobley the same way would be very impressive. Duren has that in him; he went straight through Victor Wembanyama a few nights ago.

It would have been a fun matchup seeing Cade Cunningham guarding Mitchell or Harden. Blocks and steals aside, Cade is showing qualities of an elite defender.

We knew he was solid or good on that end, but he has a shot to be a premier two-way threat at his best. The size, willingness to slide his feet, and constant engagement on that side separate him from star guards like the Cavs have.

Former Piston Dennis Schröder and Keon Ellis were other in-season Cavalier additions. Both are listed as day-to-day and questionable tonight. Those two add to the Cavs’ depth. Schroder can change the pace in a playoff matchup, and Cleveland is +16.6 with Ellis on the floor. He’s always been an impactful scrapper who’s had good shooting stretches.

The Cavs have other snipers who can get going. Sam Merrill has been one of the league’s top flame throwers this season. He’s shooting 46 percent on over seven 3-point attempts. Merril erupted from deep, going 9/10 against the Washington Wizards earlier this month.

The Pistons obviously aren’t the Wizards. It’s hard to find a team that rotates on the perimeter better than Detroit does. Before even needing to get into rotation, Merrill and the other Cavs role players will need to get by the sturdy Pistons perimeter defenders — no easy task.

Detroit’s role players match up nicely with those Cavs role players. Ron Holland, Javonte Green, and Paul Reed are not the preferred matchups for NBA players. You’re in for a long night of active hands and constant bumps if any of those three are assigned to you.

That nonstop pressure is a team-wide trend on both sides of the ball for Detroit. Cleveland could get beat up in the paint even though they’ll trot out a massive frontcourt.

Detroit averages the second-most points in the paint, and Cleveland has the fifth-best points in the paint team defense. Per PBP stats, opponents shoot 50 and 52 percent with Allen and Mobley at the rim, respectively.

Duren, Cade, the scrappy role players, and the perimeter drivers can show the Cavs why they’re different tonight. Maybe the star guards don’t suit up for Cleveland, but Detroit can still send a message to Cleveland’s double-big lineup.

Lineups​

Detroit Pistons (43-14): Cade Cunningham, Duncan Robinson, Ausar Thompson, Tobias Harris, Jalen Duren

Cleveland Cavaliers (37-23): Dennis Schröder (?), Sam Merrill, Jaylon Tyson, Evan Mobley, Jarrett Allen

Question of the day​

Has Detroit’s offensive paint dominance or team defense been more impressive?

Source: https://www.detroitbadboys.com/detr...ers-preview-send-a-message-to-clevelands-bigs

 

[Detroit Pistons]

Pistons vs. Cavs final score: Jalen Duren dominates in excrutiating OT win

DETROIT, MI - FEBRUARY 27: Daniss Jenkins #24 of the Detroit Pistons drives to the basket during the game against the Cleveland Cavaliers on February 27, 2026 at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Brian Sevald/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

As Snoop Pierson said in a late-season episode of The Wire, “Deserve aint got nothing to do with it.” (Yes, I am an elder millennial, why do you ask?). Anyway, the Detroit Pistons didn’t play well, but they did escape a game against an undermanned Cleveland Cavaliers team in OT 122-119.

Jalen Duren was brilliant, scoring 33 points to go with 16 rebounds and three blocks. With his performance tonight, he becomes the first Pistons player to score at least 25 points and secure at least 10 rebounds in four straight games since Bob MacAdoo in 1980.

It was a cursed game from the beginning. The Pistons played poorly on both ends of the floor for nearly all of the game’s first 48 minutes. Cade Cunningham had some nice individual scoring plays in the first half, but there was no cohesion among any combination of Pistons players, and Detroit was a step slow all night. And that was against a Cavs team missing both Donovan Mitchell and James Harden.

That allowed other players to step up for Cleveland, and step up they did. Jarrett Allen led the team with 25 points, including several nice running floaters. Evan Mobley netted 23, including sinking four threes, and Sam Merrill had 20, also sinking four from deep. Those combined eight threes were two more than the entire Pistons team managed.

Had Detroit lost, the game would have been epitomized by two things. The first is a bizarre 12-minute delay when the horn wouldn’t shut off, and the only solution was to completely shut down the giant display board above center court.

Detroit was playing such an ugly brand of basketball, it actually felt like a bit of a respite. The second key development was late in the game when Detroit’s two stars — Cade Cunningham (25 points, 10 rebounds, seven assists) and Duren — missed five of six free throws during a pivotal stretch in the fourth quarter. Those shots loomed large as the Pistons attempted to claw their way back into a game the Cavs were leading by nine with 2:44 left.

But a Duncan Robinson three and an Ausar Thompson backcourt steal that led to an easy dunk cut the deficit to four. The Pistons had signs of life, but then took another huge blow when Cunningham fouled out with 1:56 remaining.

After Jarrett Allen and Thompson traded free throws, Tobias Harris picked off the inbounds pass and sailed in for another dunk to cut it to two.

It seemed as if the momentum had completely turned when Jaylen Tyson was called for an offensive foul on the ensuing inbounds play after a hard shove to Robinson. But the Cavs challenged the call, and the play was reversed because Robinson was holding onto Tyson’s jersey before the shove. That was ruled a dead-ball foul, which was a huge turn. That gave Cleveland one free throw (made by Sam Merrill) and the ball. Evan Mobley missed a three-pointer on the possession, which allowed Detroit to stay in the game.

Suddenly, the Pistons found themselves down three with five seconds left. Daniss Jenkins took the inbounds and streaked up the court, going into his shooting motion almost immediately. Tyson tried to deliver a take foul before the shot to ensure Detroit could only get two, but the refs ruled it was too late and gave Jenkins three shots. He sank all three at the line. Improbably, the Pistons tied the game and forced overtime.

Duren and Jenkins took that momentum into overtime, Jenkins hit a huge bucket and had a big assist, and Duren scored a couple of baskets and had a huge steal that led to Tobias Harris’ game-clinching turnaround jumper to provide the final margin.

Somehow, the Pistons did it again. They escaped with a win, finding some reserves in crunch time when it seemed like they couldn’t do anything right. I’m not sure how much it means to beat a Cavs team missing its best players, but it was certainly Detroit sticking to its identity. They played hard and played together when it mattered most.

Source: https://www.detroitbadboys.com/detr...-final-score-jalen-duren-delivers-when-needed

 

[Detroit Pistons]

Pistons vs Cavaliers Discussion: Game Time, TV, Odds, and More

SAN FRANCISCO, CA - FEBRUARY 14: Evan Mobley #4 of the Cleveland Cavaliers and Cade Cunningham #2 of the Detroit Pistons pose for a photo during the Castrol Rising Stars as part of NBA All-Star Weekend on Friday, February 14, 2025 at Chase Center in San Francisco, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE (Photo by Juan Ocampo/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

The Detroit Pistons are playing another contending team missing much of its most potent firepower. One game after dispatching (though it wasn’t easy) the Oklahoma City Thunder B Team, they get another reserve-filled opponent in the Cleveland Cavaliers. The Cavs will be without its starting backcourt of Donovan Mitchell and recent arrival James Harden. They will also be without recent arrival Keon Ellis. They will also be without criminally underrated big man Dean Wade. That means we’ll likely see a lot of former Piston Dennis Schroder, who escaped Sacramento along with Ellis. It will also pit 2021’s first overall pick, Cade Cunningham, against No. 3 overall pick Evan Mobley. Mobley has already gotten one Defensive Player of the Year under his belt, but Cavs fans can get a little agitated when prodded about his offensive development, or lack thereof. Sometimes it feels more like a passivity issue than a skill issue, so maybe missing so much firepower will be Mobley’s chance to shine. Or maybe Cunningham will simply show the kind of vast difference between the best player in the draft and another top-5 player in the draft, and why that motivates so many teams to tank so egregiously.

Game Vitals​

When: 7 p.m. ET
Where: Little Caesars Arena, Detroit, Michigan
Watch: ESPN or Fan Duel Sports Network Detroit
Odds: Detroit -6

Projected Lineups​

Detroit Pistons (43-14)​

Cade Cunningham, Duncan Robinson, Ausar Thompson, Tobias Harris, Jalen Duren

Cleveland Cavaliers (37-23)​

Dennis Schröder (?), Sam Merrill, Jaylon Tyson, Evan Mobley, Jarrett Allen

Source: https://www.detroitbadboys.com/detr...valiers-discussion-game-time-tv-odds-and-more

 

[Detroit Pistons]

Pistons vs. Magic final score: Cade outduels Banchero as Detroit cruises in second half

ORLANDO, FLORIDA - MARCH 1: Tobias Harris #12 of the Detroit Pistons drives to the basket as Tristan da Silva #23 of the Orlando Magic defends in the first quarter at the Kia Center on March 1, 2026 in Orlando, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Peter Joneleit/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The Detroit Pistons outscored the Orlando Magic 56-35, behind 29 points from Cade Cunningham and 23 points from former Magic Tobias Harris. That second-half performance was a far cry from a sluggish first-half showing where the Pistons couldn’t hit a three to save their lives and couldn’t keep the Magic’s Paolo Banchero off the free-throw line.

Banchero was 12-of-14 from the charity stripe at halftime, and it looked like Detroit had no answers for a feisty Magic team that took a seven-point lead into the break. But the switch flipped in half No. 2. Banchero (24 points) had only seven points and two trips to the foul line in the second half. Meanwhile, the Pistons started hitting threes, getting transition opportunities, and imposing their will on their opponent.

Aside from a broken three, where he was just 2-of-9, Cunningham had everything working against the Magic. He was knifing inside for layups, hitting fadeaway J’s, and getting his teammates great open looks.

Just as impressive was Tobias Harris, who punished the team that drafted him by continually backing down his opponents for stepback jumpers on the baseline or clean looks on the elbows. He was 10-of-18 from the field and added seven rebounds of his own.

I don’t know if Harris was simply finding his shot within the flow of the game or if he pointedly wanted to punish the Magic and Banchero, who went viral for some trash talk against Unc last season. Me thinks it is the latter.

After a first half where you couldn’t credit many players with exemplary effort, it was hard to find any Piston who was giving anything less than 100% in the second half. Ron Holland was flying around, natch, and Ausar Thompson was deflecting passes and skying for rebounds. That included a poke-away steal at midcourt that led to a Thompson dunk with just over 1 minute left to put an exclamation point on the victory

The sequence gave Thompson nine points, 11 rebounds, three assists, two steals, and three blocks on the night. In other words, a vintage Ausar showing. Jalen Duren’s run of 25-plus points ended with a 16-and-10 showing against Orlando.

Banchero led the Magic with 24 points, but more than half of those were courtesy of free throws. He ended the night 5-of-10 from the floor with 11 rebounds, two assists, and nine turnovers. Desmond Bane, who has been shooting the nets off, had to settle for 17 points on 5-of-14 shooting.

The Pistons have now won 8 of 9, including 6 of the 7 games Isaiah Stewart was suspended for. Beef Stew has been out of the lineup since getting ejected in the Hornets game on Feb. 9. That means Stewart has had a three-week break to rest up and get his body right. He will be available on Tuesday as the Pistons visit Cleveland after an inexplicable and controversial 122-119 overtime win on Feb. 27.

Source: https://www.detroitbadboys.com/detr...ls-banchero-as-detroit-cruises-in-second-half

 

[Detroit Pistons]

The Pindown | Surviving a Tough Stretch

Robbie Bettelon of Detroit Bad Boys joins the show to discuss the Pistons’ past week of games. Robbie and Blake discuss Detroit’s Sunday night win over the Magic, plus the previous games against the Cavaliers, Thunder and Spurs. They discuss the Pistons’ three-point shooting struggles and whether the team’s paint domination is a sustainable strategy for the playoffs. Plus, some MVP talk and assessing J.B. Bickerstaff toward the end of his second season with the organization.

We’ve got you covered for all this and more in this week’s episode!

One shameless plug: Someone nominated The Pindown for best podcast in Hour Detroit’s Best of Detroit 2026 awards. We appreciate and are truly honored by the nomination and would appreciate any votes. You can cast your ballot here under the podcast section.

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Source: https://www.detroitbadboys.com/detroit-pistons-podcasts/49575/the-pindown-surviving-a-tough-stretch

 

[Detroit Pistons]

Pistons vs. Magic Discussion: Game Time, TV, Odds, and More

DETROIT, MICHIGAN - OCTOBER 29: Paolo Banchero #5 of the Orlando Magic takes a foul on the way to the basket by Tobias Harris #12 of the Detroit Pistons during the first half at Little Caesars Arena on October 29, 2025 in Detroit, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The 2021 No. 1 pick is facing off against the 2022 No. 1 overall pick as the Detroit Pistons and Cade Cunningham go against the Paolo Banchero-led Orlando Magic. Belief in Paolo seems to ebb and flow depending on his efficiency, something Cunningham fans know well until last season. In his most recent contest, he flirted with a triple-double, notching 19 points, nine assists and eight rebounds in a 113-108 loss to the Houston Rockets. What Paolo doesn’t have that Cade can rely on even when his shot isn’t falling is quality defense and the ability to orchestrate his team’s entire offense.

Banchero relies much more on his scoring to be effective on a nightly basis. One night, you get a great game like against the Rockets, or the 36-point outing in a one-point win against the Lakers the prior game. But in his past 10, he’s shooting just 41% from the floor and 34% from deep. And there is another play from his draft class at his heels looking to establish himself as one of the best of 2022 — Jalen Duren.

Duren is on a tear recently, dominating on offense, owning the glass, and more than holding his own on defense. In Duren’s past 10 games, he’s averaging 31.6 points per game on 65% shooting He, Banchero, and the two OKC boys — Jalen Williams and Chet Holmgren have formed a solid little top four in their draft class.

And while first thoughts when considering Orlando will always turn to Banchero, Detroit really needs to watch out for Desmond Bane. He’s hot from deep lately, and the Pistons have been giving up threes in a big way lately. If they let Bane go for 30-plus, it is going to be a long night.

Game Vitals​

When: 6 p.m. ET
Where: Kia Center, Orlando, Florida
Watch: Fan Duel Sports Network Detroit
Odds: Pistons -5

Projected Lineups​

Detroit Pistons (44-14)​

Cade Cunningham, Duncan Robinson, Ausar Thompson, Tobias Harris, Jalen Duren

Orlando Magic (31-27)​

Jalen Suggs, Desmond Bane, Tristan Da Silva, Paolo Banchero, Wendell Carter

Source: https://www.detroitbadboys.com/detr...s-magic-discussion-game-time-tv-odds-and-more

 

[Detroit Pistons]

Pistons vs. Cavs preview: Beef Stew is back!

The Pistons take on the Cavaliers again after a thrilling win over them at home on Friday. This time the Pistons will have reinforcements as Isaiah Stewart returns from his 7-game suspension from the fight against the Charlotte Hornets before the All Star Break. During that time, the Pistons went 6-1 with their only loss against the San Antonio Spurs, but they will definitely welcome him back with open arms.

When these two teams squared off last time, the Pistons got very lucky. They faced a short-handed Cavaliers team who were very much up for the challenge. It looked like the Pistons had no shot at winning until a couple of lucky bounces late in the 4th and then a heady play by Daniss Jenkins to draw a 3-point shooting foul on an intentional foul led to overtime where the Pistons were able to seal the deal.

There were some reports that came out after the game about how the Cavaliers are not afraid of the Pistons come playoff time, so it will be interesting to see how the Pistons respond if at all.

Game Vitals​

Where: Rocket Arena in Cleveland, OH
When: Tuesday, March 3 at 7 pm EST
Watch: Fan Duel Sports Network Detroit
Odds: Pistons (-2.5)

Analysis​

In the last matchup, the Pistons were able to avoid facing James Harden and Donovan Mitchell, as both players were out with an injury. Harden is back, but Mitchell will still be out, so the Pistons luck out a little bit once again. However, as the Cavs proved in the last game, their backups are ready for the test and are more than capable of keeping them in the game against the best team in the East.

Their guards did a great job of creating dribble penetration which led to some easy baskets for Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley, although a lot of his shots came from the perimeter. Luckily for the Pistons, they will have Isaiah Stewart to help with protecting the rim. Paul Reed has done a more than admirable job filling in for Stewart during his suspension, but he isn’t quite the rim presence that Isaiah Stewart is. That will be important, with James Harden being back, as he loves to create space off the dribble and then throw lobs to his big men.

With Harden back, the Cavs now have the offensive punch that they need to hold a lead if they build one like last game, so the Pistons will need to have a better 2nd half than they did on Friday.

One players that did not struggle in the 2nd half is the newest Eastern Conference Player of the Week, Jalen Duren, who the Cavaliers had no answer for. He didn’t have an answer for Jarrett Allen either, but Duren ended the game with 33 point and 16 rebounds, but more importantly, carried the team after Cade Cunningham fouled out with a few minutes left in the 4th.

Ausar Thompson was also fantastic in that game with 18 points, 8 rebounds, and 5 assists. The Pistons will need him today to slow down James Harden, unless they opt to put him on Sam Merrill, who the Pistons didn’t really have an answer for until late in Friday’s game.

It would not surprise me if JB Bickerstaff opts to put Ausar Thompson on Merrill since he is the best at fighting through screens and chasing players off-ball while Cade Cunningham can at least stay in front of James Harden and match his size. With Donovan Mitchell out, the Pistons have the luxury of being able to matchup this way since they would not be able to get away with if Mitchell was playing.

One more thing to watch out for will be Jaylon Tyson on Cade Cunningham. He didn’t really shutdown Cade or anything, but he did do a good job of pressuring him and baiting him into some fouls which ultimately led to him fouling out of the game. I would not be surprised if he does more of the same tonight.

This will be the last matchup between these two teams, but they very well could matchup in the 2nd round of the playoffs if both teams do what they are supposed to do. This will now be the 2nd game of the season for the Pistons against this version of the Cleveland Cavaliers, but they were not at full strength in either matchup, so it won’t determine much about how these two teams potentially matchup.

Lineups​

Cleveland Cavaliers (38-24): James Harden, Jaylon Tyson, Sam Merrill, Evan Mobley, Jarrett Allen

Detroit Pistons (45-14): Cade Cunningham, Duncan Robinson, Ausar Thompson, Tobias Harris, Jalen Duren

Question of the Day​

Should the Pistons still try to find minutes for Paul Reed with the return of Isaiah Stewart given how well he played?

Source: https://www.detroitbadboys.com/detr...579/pistons-vs-cavs-preview-beef-stew-is-back

 

[Detroit Pistons]

Pistons at Cavs final score: Detroit splits season series with Cleveland, loses 113-109

CLEVELAND, OHIO - MARCH 03: Cade Cunningham #2 of the Detroit Pistons guards James Harden #1 of the Cleveland Cavaliers during the fourth quarter at Rocket Arena on March 03, 2026 in Cleveland, Ohio. The Cavaliers defeated the Pistons 113-109. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Jason Miller/Getty Images) | Getty Images

If the report of the Cleveland locker room thinking Detroit isn’t in their class was true, it didn’t land as motivation for the Pistons tonight.

In their final battle with division foe, the Cavaliers would be without Donovan Mitchell, though, it would be Detroit’s first time seeing Harden in a Cavs jersey. Cleveland got out to a quick 9-2 run to start the game, but the Pistons would create their own 9-2 run after a JB Bickerstaff timeout. A late three by Ron Holland (sans undershirt) gave Detroit a 27-25 lead at the end of the first quarter. Cade Cunningham, Jalen Duren, and Holland all had six points.

Cleveland’s offense looked good – they had an early 8-0 run until Javonte Green hit a three, just to extend that to a 15-5 run until another Green three tried to stop the bleeding. Ausar had a pretty midrange fadeaway over Evan Mobley, but once Mobley and the Cavs had the lead, they never gave it back – Cleveland was up 54-48 at halftime. Duren led the way with nine points while Cade had eight and Ausar had seven.

Cade missed too many shots tonight, but his playmaking fueled Detroit’s offense. Tobias Harris was able to step in for Cunningham offensively during the third as Harris had 17 points in the quarter. He attacked mismatches against the smaller Cleveland guards, but even with his impressive play, the Cavs still held a 89-80 before the final frame. Ausar also added another insane chase down block to his defensive highlight reel.

The defense amped up in the fourth quarter, though, they turned on the switch too late. They forced plenty of Cleveland turnovers and Cade had another block of his own, this time on James Harden. A Jalen Duren dunk with three minutes left made it a one-point game, but the Cavs had an answer each time Detroit made it close. Cleveland would go on to win 113-109. Jaylon Tyson led the way with 21 points while Mobley and Harden both had 18.

That loss snaps Detroit’s six-game winning streak and Cade had too inefficient of a night to help seal the comeback. He shot 4-for-16 from the field for 10 points, though he did add six rebounds and 14 assists. The five turnovers was a little high and he had a costly one late in the clutch when he passed it into the middle of the Cleveland defense.

Jalen Duren and Tobias Harris carried the scoring load for Detroit – Duren had 24 points on only nine shots along with 14 rebounds while Harris had 19 points. Ausar Thompson looked great with 16 points, six rebounds, six assists, and four steals on an efficient 64% from the field. Cleveland is happy to leave Ausar and Ron wide open from the three-point line, but they have to find other ways to attack their defense and Ausar did that well tonight. The coaching staff will have to get creative with them when they’re guarded that way in the playoffs.

JB Bickerstaff was unhappy with the team’s defensive effort and felt they got outworked tonight. It felt that way throughout the game as they were never able to reclaim the lead after they lost it at the beginning of the second quarter.

Detroit will look to bounce back Thursday night in San Antonio against Wemby and the Spurs.

Go Stones.

Source: https://www.detroitbadboys.com/detr...ts-season-series-with-cleveland-loses-113-109

 

[Detroit Pistons]

Pistons vs. Cavs Discussion: Game Time, TV, Odds, and More

DETROIT, MI - FEBRUARY 27: Tobias Harris #12 of the Detroit Pistons looks to pass the ball during the game against the Cleveland Cavaliers on February 27, 2026 at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Brian Sevald/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

It feels like both of these teams are hankering for a rematch, as both the Detroit Pistons and Cleveland Cavaliers can make a case for being the best team in the Eastern Conference, and both teams walked away from their previous game against each other feeling like they left a lot on the table. It’s an easier case for the Pistons to make, of course, they have been cemented as the No. 1 seed in the East for months now, and have built a healthy five-game lead over the No. 2 Boston Celtics. They also won that last game against the Cavs in overtime. The Cavs, meanwhile, made a huge swing at the deadline in adding James Harden and ditching DeAndre Hunter, and the vibes, for now, are much improved. The Cavs outplayed the Pistons for much of that game on Feb. 27, but let it slip away late and eventually fell in overtime. Tonight, Cleveland gets James Harden back while still missing Donovan Mitchell. The Pistons welcome Isaiah Stewart back following a seven-game suspension. My preferred game plan tonight — take threes, make threes, block out. Just for a change of pace.

Game Vitals​

When: 7 p.m. ET
Where: Rocket Arena, Cleveland, Ohio
Watch: Fan Duel Sports Network Detroit
Odds: Pistons -2.5

Projected Lineups​

Detroit Pistons (45-14)​

Cade Cunningham, Duncan Robinson, Ausar Thompson, Tobias Harris, Jalen Duren

Cleveland Cavaliers (38-24)​

James Harden, Jaylon Tyson, Sam Merrill, Evan Mobley, Jarrett Allen

Source: https://www.detroitbadboys.com/detr...vs-cavs-discussion-game-time-tv-odds-and-more

 

[Detroit Pistons]

3-Man Fastbreak: Shooting, Duren as No.2, and the Spurs matchup

DETROIT, MI - FEBRUARY 23: Victor Wembanyama #1 of the San Antonio Spurs drives to the basket during the game against the Detroit Pistons on February 23, 2026 at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Chris Schwegler/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

The Detroit Pistons are entering the final stretch of their schedule, and while their position as the No. 1 team in the Eastern Conference has never been more secure, the doubts about the playoff viability of this team only seem to be growing. It is rare that you see any article about the Pistons, about contenders, or about threats, and you don’t see folks handwaving Detroit’s chances in the playoffs. Whether that is a first-round upset at the hands of a new NBA darling (and legitimately dangerous team), the Hornets, a second-round upset via the new-look Cavs, or an Eastern Conference Finals loss at the hands of the big-market Celtics or Knicks. Let’s sort through the noise and dive into the latest trends.

1. Shooting​

How many teams in today’s NBA could start a game 0-for-15 from three and still win comfortably? Maybe one or two, and it includes Detroit.

The Pistons are succeeding in a way many believed was extinct. While the league loads up on shooting and spacing, Detroit continues to score in gritty, physical ways — and more importantly, prevent points on the other end.

The tradeoff, of course, is perimeter shooting. Detroit’s identity is built around the rim, and that comes at a cost. After hovering around league average for much of the season, the Pistons now rank 26th in three-point percentage. Over their last four games, they’ve gone 32-for-126 (25.4%) from deep — and still won three of four.

That’s impressive. It’s also not sustainable through multiple playoff series.

As postseason defenses tighten and points at the rim become harder to manufacture, the question becomes unavoidable: Does Detroit have enough shot-making to survive when it matters most?

---

2. Is Duren a true No. 2?​

Championship teams almost always share one trait: at least two All-Star–level players. Detroit has dominated the Eastern Conference largely with a collective approach behind Cunningham, but Jalen Duren is beginning to test whether that hierarchy needs redefining.

Over the past stretch, Duren has shown real flashes of being a legitimate second option. Before last night’s win in Orlando, he led the Pistons in scoring for four straight games, averaging 28.3 points, all alongside Cunningham. That’s not empty production — that’s shared offensive responsibility.

We saw how defenses sold out to stop Cunningham in last year’s playoffs, and he’ll be an even bigger focal point this time around. If Duren can consistently punish that attention — not just as a finisher, but as someone who can initiate offense — it changes Detroit’s ceiling.

The challenge? There aren’t many bigs who can truly function as a No. 2 without any perimeter game. Whether Duren can bend that rule may end up being one of the defining questions of Detroit’s postseason run.

3. Are the Spurs Detroit’s ultimate kryptonite?​

This version of the East’s No. 1 seed is dominant — but not matchup-proof. And no team has exposed Detroit’s weaknesses quite like the San Antonio Spurs.

In last Monday’s 114–103 loss at Little Caesars Arena, San Antonio highlighted everything Detroit struggles with. The Pistons controlled the first half by hitting outside shots and capitalizing when Victor Wembanyama was off the floor. The second half told a different story.

Detroit’s offense stalled, rhythm disappeared, and Cade Cunningham was pushed into becoming a perimeter shooter — not where he’s most comfortable or effective. The Pistons went 7-for-36 from three, while San Antonio knocked down 18-of-40, a gap that decided the game.

Wembanyama disrupts Detroit’s rim-based identity in a way few players can. In a hypothetical Finals matchup, his presence alone would fundamentally alter how the Pistons play. It would be electric for the league — but from Detroit’s perspective, it’s probably a matchup they’d rather avoid.

We won’t have to wait long to see a rematch as Detroit travels to San Antonio on Thursday – this time they’ll have reinforcements in Isaiah Stewart.

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Source: https://www.detroitbadboys.com/gene...-shooting-duren-as-no-2-and-the-spurs-matchup

 

[Detroit Pistons]

Pistons vs Spurs preview: 2005 all over again

DETROIT, MI - FEBRUARY 23: Victor Wembanyama #1 of the San Antonio Spurs and Jalen Duren #0 of the Detroit Pistons look on during the game on February 23, 2026 at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Brian Sevald/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

The Detroit Pistons take on Victor Wembanyama and the San Antonio Spurs again, a few games after Wemby stifled their offense. Stephon Castle deserves credit for his pressure on Cade Cunningham, but everything changes with Wemby on the backline.

A 2005 Finals rematch is a real possibility. Both Detroit and San Antonio are top 10ish offenses and top 5 defenses. Detroit has some playoff experience with their showing last year, but not too many on either team have been a major contributor on a deep run. Harrison Barnes has been, but he is out tonight after waking up with a sore ankle a few days ago.

Both teams are live dogs to make the NBA Finals. Improvement was expected for both teams, but they’ve smashed expectations. Detroit will travel to San Antonio to test their mettle against one of the league’s best.

Game Vitals​

Where: Frost Bank Center, San Antonio, Texas

When: 8:00 PM

Watch: Fan Duel Sports Network Detroit

Odds: Pistons (+3.5)

Analysis​

The Pistons had two tight games with the Cleveland Cavaliers in the last week, who were without their star, Donovan Mitchell. Detroit split those games, but there are moments they’d want back. Here’s a great opportunity to get back on track against a Spurs team that has won 14 of its last 17 games, including a dub over Detroit.

Figuring out the Wemby challenge as an offense is no easy task. Teams have taken him out of the game scoring-wise, but he still ends up a +41 because he is that impactful as a defender.

Cade turned down some solid looks with Wemby in his vicinity in the last matchup. Wemby, being the pest he is, plus Castle’s relentless intensity, didn’t make things easier for the MVP candidate.

It was a rough shooting night in Cade’s last outing in Cleveland. His overall impact was there with the 33 points he created off assists, but Detroit will need his shot-making tonight. And that goes for everyone. Players need to take advantage of the attention Cade draws tonight.

Consistently hitting outside shots can combat Wemby’s nutty rim protection. They love to play him on a non-shooter to allow him to hover in the lane. Someone has to make him pay for sagging.

That’s not going to be Ausar Thompson or Jalen Duren making Wemby pay from 3 tonight. Duren is capable of going at Wemby. He should be aggressive early to potentially get Wemby in foul trouble. Ausar often offsets his shooting woes with timely cuts, aggression on the offensive glass, and secondary playmaking duties.

If Ausar is the player Wemby sags off of, crashing the glass should skyrocket on his priority list. That’s not as good as sinking open 3s, but it can lead to winning basketball. Wemby won’t be matched up with the likes of Duncan Robinson or Tobias Harris, most likely, but those guys still need to deliver from 3. Maybe it’s a tryout game for Kevin Huerter? Someone has to help keep the Spurs honest and make them pay for gapping up on Cade and Duren.

Besides Wemby’s paint protection and Castle’s all-around solid game, San Antonio burned Detroit from 3. They buried a season-high 18 triples. While Detroit’s own lack of shooting has been a constant conversation that I participate in, it should be noted that teams usually don’t torch them from deep.

Opponents only make 34.7 percent of their 3s against this lockdown Pistons defense. That’s third best in the association, according to Cleaning the Glass. Teams shoot a decent amount of 3s against the Pistons, but the Spurs’ explosion hasn’t been a regular theme.

The Cavs did get up a ton of deep balls last game, too, though. Tonight is an opportunity for Detroit to beat one of the hottest teams in basketball and get back to its chaotic defense that forces shooters to take contested shots or drive into their top-tier rim protection.

Devin Vassell (28 pts – 7 3s) and Julian Champagnie (17 pts – 5 3s) got it going in the last matchup. Those two need to be limited. Isaiah Stewart is around for this one. It’s not an easy night for anyone when he and Duren come into town.

Wemby is averaging 16 points with a 54 true shooting percentage over the last five games. He has struggled as a scorer, and Detroit could keep those struggles alive. It remains to be seen how Detroit can respond to Wemby on the other end.

Lineups​

Detroit Pistons (45-15): Cade Cunningham, Duncan Robinson, Ausar Thompson, Tobias Harris, Jalen Duren

San Antonio Spurs (44-17): DeAaron Fox, Stephon Castle, Devin Vassell, Julian Champagnie, Victor Webmanyama

Question of the day​

Did the 1988 or 2005 Finals loss hurt more?

Source: https://www.detroitbadboys.com/detr.../pistons-vs-spurs-preview-2005-all-over-again

 

[Detroit Pistons]

Pistons vs Spurs Discussion: Game Time, TV, Odds, and More

DETROIT, MI - FEBRUARY 23: Cade Cunningham #2 of the Detroit Pistons handles the ball during the game against the San Antonio Spurs on February 23, 2026 at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Brian Sevald/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

It’s been a minute since I could definitively say I’ve seen the Detroit Pistons play a great basketball game on both ends of the floor. That is partly due to the incredibly high standard the team has set for itself this year. But you can also mix in some wins against marginal competition, some wins against better competition with a heavy dose of luck, and some straight up losses. They aren’t playing their best as they face the San Antonio Spurs once again. It was the previous game against the Spurs where you can say this mini-swoon began (as much as you can ever call winning three of five, including wins against the Thunder and Cavs a swoon). The Pistons were outplayed easily on both ends of the floor in that game, and Detroit’s lack of shooting stood in stark contrast to a Spurs team firing on all cylinders. Following a loss to the aforementioned Cavs, the Pistons are looking to avoid what would be just their third two-game losing streak of the season. Note: They have yet to have a three-game losing streak. To beat the Spurs, Detroit needs to shoot the ball better and force the Spurs, also a bad shooting team, to shoot much worse than their previous matchup. In that game, the Spurs made 18 threes and 45% of their attempts. Mind you, on the season, the Spurs are shooting 35% from deep compared to Detroit’s 34%.

Game Vitals​

When: 8:00 PM
Where: Frost Bank Center, San Antonio, Texas
Watch: Fan Duel Sports Network Detroit
Odds: Pistons +3.5

Projected Lineups​

Detroit Pistons (45-15)​

Cade Cunningham, Duncan Robinson, Ausar Thompson, Tobias Harris, Jalen Duren

San Antonio Spurs (44-17)​

DeAaron Fox, Stephon Castle, Devin Vassell, Julian Champagnie, Victor Webmanyama

Source: https://www.detroitbadboys.com/detr...s-spurs-discussion-game-time-tv-odds-and-more

 

[Detroit Pistons]

Pistons vs. Nets Discussion: Game Time, TV, Odds, and More

DETROIT, MI - FEBRUARY 1: Marcus Sasser #25 of the Detroit Pistons handles the ball during the game against the Brooklyn Nets on February 1, 2026 at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Brian Sevald/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

The Detroit Pistons face the Brooklyn Nets tonight, looking to avoid their first three-game losing streak of the season without the help of Cade Cunningham and Ausar Thompson, who are both out with injuries. Cunningham is being held out with a left quadricep contusion, likely in a more precautionary step, and Thompson is out with an ankle sprain sustained against the San Antonio Spurs. The Pistons have won five in a row against the Nets entering tonight’s game. That includes their most recent matchup when Detroit trounced Brooklyn by 52 points.

Game Vitals​

When: 6 p.m. ET
Where: Little Caesars Arena, Detroit, Michigan
Watch: FanDuel Sports Network Detroit
Odds: Pistons -13.5

Projected Lineups​

Detroit Pistons (45-16)​

Daniss Jenkins, Marcus Sasser, Duncan Robinson, Tobias Harris, Jalen Duren

Brooklyn Nets (15-47)​

Nolan Raore, Terance Mann, Michael Porter Jr., Noah Clowney, Nic Claxton

Source: https://www.detroitbadboys.com/detr...vs-nets-discussion-game-time-tv-odds-and-more

 

[Detroit Pistons]

Pistons vs. Nets final score: Second-half collapse sends Detroit to first three-game losing streak of season

DETROIT, MICHIGAN - MARCH 07: Tobias Harris #12 of the Detroit Pistons takes a shot around Ziaire Williams #1 of the Brooklyn Nets during the second half at Little Caesars Arena on March 07, 2026 in Detroit, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images) | Getty Images

When you’re covering games, you are often mentally writing your story in real time. Very early on, I was imagining myself writing a clever line about how there are no moral victories, but maybe there are immoral victories. Turns out, I was being optimistic.

The Detroit Pistons blew a 23-point second-half lead and lost in stunning fashion to the Brooklyn Nets 107-105. It sends Detroit to its first three-game losing streak of the season, and that streak could easily stretch to four as they have a quick turnaround with a game tomorrow in Miami against the Heat.

Tonight they were without both Cade Cunningham and Ausar Thompson, and boy was it noticeable. Hopefully, both are able to return in Miami.

In total, the Pistons played about maybe 10 good minutes of basketball in this game, but the Nets were simply unable or unwilling to capitalize on Detroit’s nonchalance, carelessness, and lack of precision. But eventually the scales of justice balanced out, the Nets hit more of their shots, and Detroit never found a way to answer back.

The biggest issue on the offensive end was Detroit’s inability to functionally run its offense. No surprise with Cade out, but even as Detroit was building up its lead, they were often beginning their offensive sets with 10-12 seconds on the shot clock. It’s not like this team is blessed with creators. When it’s taking Daniss Jenkins 14 seconds to get the offense started, it puts players like Ron Holland, Duncan Robinson, Tobias Harris, and Jalen Duren on the back foot.

Defensively, the game was just as disgusting. The Pistons were outrebounded and allowed the Nets to outscore them in the paint. Jalen Duren was not using his size advantage, instead trying to coax foul calls and not making the needed effort to box out Nets defenders hunting for rebounds.

Detroit was outscored in the second half 61-43, and no matter how long the scoring drought stretched for the Pistons, there was never one second of urgency among its players. They thought they could give less than full effort and sneak away with a win against a team on a 10-game losing streak. They were extremely wrong, and it was embarrassing, full stop.

The game was just an all-around disaster, and the noise about the Pistons being too reliant on Cade, too talent-deficient to make real noise in the playoffs, and a bit of a house of cards on offense is not going to go away anytime soon.

I trust in Cunningham coming back, and I trust JB Bickerstaff to use this loss as a wake-up call and a rallying cry. The Pistons were a bit too comfortable sitting at the top of the Eastern Conference for so long. You can call this game a lot of things, many of which are not suitable for young children. But it was most certainly a wake-up call. I hope the players realize it.

Source: https://www.detroitbadboys.com/detr...t-to-first-three-game-losing-streak-of-season

 

[Detroit Pistons]

Pistons vs. Heat Discussion: Game Time, TV, Odds, and More

MIAMI, FLORIDA - MARCH 19: Tyler Herro #14 of the Miami Heat drives against Tobias Harris #12 of the Detroit Pistons during the third quarter at Kaseya Center on March 19, 2025 in Miami, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Megan Briggs/Getty Images) | Getty Images

The Detroit Pistons will have Cade Cunningham back in the lineup as they look to end a three-game skid, including an embarrassing loss to the Brooklyn Nets on Saturday. They played that game without their star point guard, and it showed. Having him back will be a boon to their offense, but their defense will once again be without Ausar Thompson, who will miss his second consecutive game with an ankle sprain. Also out of the lineup is Caris LeVert, who sprained his wrist in the loss to the Nets. I never want to wish injury against anybody, but in my humble opinion, the Pistons’ bench had been far too reliant on LeVert as an initiator with far too little to show for it. If LeVert misses time, it will at least give other guys an opportunity and a responsibility to make the offense work in Cade’s absence. However, with another ball handler out, that means Detroit doesn’t have the luxury of inserting Daniss Jenkins, the team’s only other reliable ball handler, in the starting lineup alongside Cunningham. Instead, they will turn to Marcus Sasser for the second consecutive game. Let’s hope he rediscovers his 3-point stroke and his offensive aggression. The Heat, meanwhile, will be without the services of Norm Powell and Andrew Wiggins.

Game Vitals​

When: 6 p.m. ET
Where: Kaseya Center, Miami, Florida
Watch: FanDuel Sports Network Detroit
Odds: Pistons -2.5

Projected Lineups​

Detroit Pistons (45-17)​

Cade Cunningham, Marcus Sasser, Duncan Robinson, Tobias Harris, Jalen Duren

Miami Heat (35-29)​

Davion Mitchell, Tyler Herro, Pelle Larsson, Myron Gardner, Bam Adebayo

Source: https://www.detroitbadboys.com/detr...vs-heat-discussion-game-time-tv-odds-and-more

 

[Detroit Pistons]

Pistons vs. Heat final score: Detroit demolished in Miami

MIAMI, FL - MARCH 8: Cade Cunningham #2 of the Detroit Pistons handles the ball during the game against the Miami Heat on March 8, 2026 at Kaseya Center in Miami, Florida. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this Photograph, user is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Issac Baldizon/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

The Detroit Pistons have cemented themselves at the top of the Eastern Conference by delivering suffocating defense, getting to every lose ball, locking down the paint, and wanting it more than their opponent night in and night out. On Sunday in Miami, the Heat out-Pistons the Pistons. Detroit was outhustled and outmuscled, falling behind by 20 points early and never recovering, eventually falling 121-110.

On Saturday, you could blame the terrible effort as a team scrambling without its star Cade Cunningham. On Sunday, Cade was back, and he delivered. Cunningham scored 26 points, hit six of his nine three-point attempts, and added 10 assists. They still struggled to stay within 30 points most of the game. Jalen Duren (24 points) was 10-of-12 from the field, but the Pistons couldn’t come close to Miami because he wasn’t delivering on defense or on the boards.

Detroit lost this game because Miami did everything Detroit hangs its hat on better than it did. The Pistons are one of the premier teams in the paint, on both offense and defense, but Miami outscored them 58-56. The Pistons thrive when their locked-in defense creates turnovers that lead to transition opportunities. The Heat outscored Detroit on the fast break 22-6. They lost the board war 58-48. It seemed like Miami was forcing every deflection, getting to every loose ball, and was the one dictating everything on the floor. Detroit could do nothing but react, and they were two steps slow in every reaction.

The Heat were led by Tyler Herro with 25 points, including four three-pointers, and Bam Adebayo, who hit four from deep as well. The two also got themselves to the free-throw line, and went a collective 11-of-12. Detroit’s two stars, Duren and Cunningham, were just 6-of-7.

The biggest issue is the team’s tissue paper defense in the past few games, which is true enough, but the most worrying thing to me is that the team is letting its completely limp offensive production leak into its effort on defense. They are so devoid of trust in their ability to put the ball in the basket that they are not playing loose and aggressive on the defensive end.

Losing Ausar Thompson to an ankle injury certainly doesn’t help. Nor does replacing his production with a completely invisible Marcus Sasser (two points and bad defense in 20 minutes of action). Javonte Green isn’t providing a spark on either end of the floor like he was in the season’s first 50 games, and when multiple spots on the floor are sputtering, it means the limitation of a player like Ron Holland really begins to show.

The Pistons, quite simply, have no answers right now. They need to figure out how to rediscover their identity as a defense-first team, and let that lead to some offensive creation. No more shooters and ball handlers in the lineup who aren’t providing any of either alongside Cunningham. I’d put Isaiah Stewart, one of the only players who seemed like he gave a damn tonight, into the starting lineup and shift Tobias Harris to small forward.

Stewart provides just as much spacing as Sasser, but also actually provides rebounding and defense. It also opens up an opportunity for minutes for Paul Reed, who you’re never sad is getting minutes.

Until the team remembers that it is one of the best defensive teams in the league, it is going to keep losing. And it’s not a stellar offensive night that is going to ignite this defense. It’s the opposite. They need to impose their will on an opponent, and the rest will become much easier.

Their next chance is a bit of redemption against the Brooklyn Nets on Tuesday. It is starting to feel like a must-win game.

Source: https://www.detroitbadboys.com/detr...-heat-final-score-detroit-demolished-in-miami

 

[Detroit Pistons]

Pistons vs. Heat preview: Detroit looks to stop the bleeding vs. surging Miami

DETROIT, MI - JANUARY 1: Duncan Robinson #55 of the Detroit Pistons drives to the basket during the game against the Miami Heat on January 1, 2026 at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2026 NBAE (Photo by Chris Schwegler/NBAE via Getty Images) | NBAE via Getty Images

The Detroit Pistons enter tonight’s early evening tipoff against the Miami Heat at the lowest point of its season. Perhaps it is great that a low point can consist of uneven play, a winning record in the past 10 games, and the year’s longest losing streak consisting of a paltry three games. But serious Pistons watchers understand that the team is facing several serious issues right now. Things they need to figure out, and fast. Unfortunately, after Saturday’s embarrassing loss to the Brooklyn Nets, Detroit now faces a comfortable and surging Heat team. Miami has won seven of nine and is in the middle of a comfy eight-game stretch that features just one road game — a quick jaunt to Charlotte, where they beat the Hornets.

Game Vitals​

When: 6 p.m. ET
Where: Kaseya Center, Miami, Florida
Watch: FanDuel Sports Network Detroit
Odds: Pistons -2.5

Analysis​

The Pistons have not yet submitted an injury report for today’s game, but there is hope Cade Cunningham could suit up after missing the Brooklyn game. Detroit needs its MVP candidate back in the lineup. The offense is too dysfunctional with too few playmakers to excel without Cade running the show. Daniss Jenkins has regressed quite a bit as a scorer, and while he tries his best to facilitate and put pressure on defenses, there is a wide chasm between what he can bring and what you can expect on a nightly basis from Cunningham.

The Heat have kicked it up a notch lately and are a finely tuned offensive machine. The team sports a top-5 offense in its past 10 games because it is getting to the free-throw line, moving the ball to create high-quality perimeter looks, and capitalizing on transition opportunities to score easily.

In that span, both Bam Adebayo and Tyler Herro are averaging a team-leading 21.9 points per game. Herro is hitting better than 44% from deep and averaging better than 5 assists per night, while Adebayo is playing stellar defense and adding 10 boards per game. The Heat rank 10th on the season in 3-point percentage, but several players beyond Herro are riding hot streaks that are helping fuel Miami’s potent offense. Andrew Wiggins is hitting 41% of his attempts, and Davion Mitchell (53%) and Kel’el Ware (37.5%) are expanding out in more limited attempts.

We all know what Detroit has to do to win this game. Take the defensive side of the ball seriously — that is especially true of Jalen Duren, who needs to not only help contain Heat bigs who can be dangerous, but help provide a second line of defense against Herro and others, as Ausar Thompson might miss tonight’s matchup with an ankle sprain.

We also need to see Cunningham do Cunningham things. His shot has been off for a bit, the turnovers have crept up, and the team can’t afford for him to play at anything less than his All-Star level. Finally, can we get a “revenge” game from Duncan Robinson? Robinson has one game of hitting more than three of his three pointers in the past month. Perhaps he can find a spark facing his former team?

Projected Lineups​

Detroit Pistons (45-17)​

Cade Cunningham, Daniss Jenkins, Duncan Robinson, Tobias Harris, Jalen Duren

Miami Heat (35-29)​

Davion Mitchell, Tyler Herro, Pelle Larsson, Andrew Wiggins, Bam Adebayo

Question of the Game​

What will be the first sign that the Pistons have escaped from their funk and will win this game?

Source: https://www.detroitbadboys.com/detr...t-looks-to-stop-the-bleeding-vs-surging-miami

 

[Detroit Pistons]

Pistons vs. Nets Discussion: Game Time, TV, Odds, and More

DETROIT, MICHIGAN - MARCH 07: Daniss Jenkins #24 of the Detroit Pistons passes around Michael Porter Jr. #17 of the Brooklyn Nets during the second half at Little Caesars Arena on March 07, 2026 in Detroit, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images) | Getty Images

It’s JB Bickerstaff’s birthday, and all I want him to receive is his Detroit Pistons mauling the Brooklyn Nets. The Pistons need a get-right game in the worst way. Their performance has slipped, and some of it is regression, some of it is not locking in, and some of it is confidence. It’s hard to fix the first, and the easiest way to fix the second is to solve for the third. That made sense in my head, anyway. The Pistons need to have a dominant defensive performance, and getting there is always easier when you’re seeing the ball go through the basket on the other end. Unfortunately, the Pistons will still be without Ausar Thompson, who remains out with an ankle sprain. Caris LeVert will be in street clothes as well. The Pistons have been in a funk since the trade deadline, but it metastasized in a dreadful performance against the Nets last week that saw the Pistons surrender a 23-point third-quarter lead. Getting back on the road to recovery requires them to annihilate the Nets.

Game Vitals​

When: 7:30 p.m. ET
Where: Barclays Center, Brooklyn, New York
Watch: FanDuel Sports Network Detroit
Odds: Pistons -15

Projected Lineups​

Detroit Pistons (45-18)​

Cade Cunningham, Marcus Sasser, Duncan Robinson, Tobias Harris, Jalen Duren

Brooklyn Nets (17-47)​

Nolan Traore, Drake Powell, Michael Porter Jr., Noah Clowney, Nic Claxton

Source: https://www.detroitbadboys.com/detr...vs-nets-discussion-game-time-tv-odds-and-more