Adam Williams presents his prediction for the NBA match.
The Detroit Pistons have a real chance to push for a top-four finish in the East as their rivals struggle. Every game matters now, and facing the Western Conference’s bottom side, the New Orleans Pelicans, presents an opportunity to capitalise.
New Orleans Pelicans
Injuries continue to plague the Pelicans. With Dejounte Murray, Yves Missi, and Herbert Jones all sidelined, the team is missing three key starters. This has taken a major toll, as they have won just once in their last five games. The absence of these players means the Pelicans are missing 46 points per game—an enormous blow given their already fragile defence, which concedes an average of 119 points per game (26th in the league).
Detroit Pistons
The Pistons put up a fight against the Western Conference leaders, the Oklahoma City Thunder (107:113) but fell short. Head coach J.B. Bickerstaff attributed the loss to controversial officiating and the ejection of Cade Cunningham. The Pistons will be fired up to bounce back, and they have found a key contributor in Dennis Schröder. The German guard has flourished in the Pistons, delivering 17 points and 11 assists against the Thunder’s tough defence.
New Orleans Pelicans vs Detroit Pistons Prediction
The Detroit Pistons will be highly motivated to dominate this matchup. Expect them to set the tempo early and build a lead. Given the New Orleans Pelicans’ injury woes, it’s unlikely they will be able to mount much resistance.
