Adam Williams presents his prediction for the NBA match.
Since late October, the Detroit Pistons have come a long way. Expectations have risen significantly, as the Pistons have transformed from a league laughingstock into a feisty team with a winning record of 50% or better. Despite this progress, bookmakers are sticking to a familiar spread of +10.5 points, the same as in their previous matchup against the Cleveland Cavaliers earlier in the fall. What's behind this oddity?
Cleveland Cavaliers
Given the Cavaliers' recent performances, it’s hard to trust the spread. Last week, they suffered their first three-game losing streak of the season. Over the weekend, they conceded 130+ points in back-to-back games—first to a depleted Philadelphia 76ers team on the road (129:132) and then to the Houston Rockets at home (131:135). Against the Rockets, the visitors shot aggressively from beyond the arc and dominated the paint, despite Evan Mobley’s return to the lineup. Overall, the Cavaliers seem to be struggling to maintain their pace and look physically drained.
Detroit Pistons
Before the season began, bookmakers projected the Detroit Pistons to win around 25 games. By the end of January, they’ve already racked up 23 victories—far surpassing last season’s total of 14 wins. The Pistons have made significant strides on both ends of the court, and Cade Cunningham has matured into a true force after a couple of full seasons, now ready to deliver at a high level. The Pistons have won 9 of their last 13 games, with their star player averaging an impressive stat line of 26.8 points, 8.8 assists, and 6 rebounds during this stretch.
Cleveland Cavaliers vs Detroit Pistons Prediction
The Detroit Pistons have shown they can compete with top-tier teams and rarely lose by double digits. Over their last 19 games, this has happened only three times. Meanwhile, the Cleveland Cavaliers are unlikely to deliver a blowout victory.
