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