The Detroit Pistons will host the San Antonio Spurs on March 25 at Little Caesars Arena. Detroit holds a 40-32 record and sits sixth in the Eastern Conference. San Antonio comes in at 31-39, placing 13th in the Western Conference.
These teams last met on February 21 when the Pistons won 125-110. Detroit enters this game coming off a win despite missing key players Cade Cunningham and Tim Hardaway Jr. The Spurs are on a three-game win streak as they aim to stay in the play-in race.
Pistons Preview – Will Depth Continue to Deliver?
Detroit is dealing with injuries to key players like Cade Cunningham and Tim Hardaway Jr. In their recent win over New Orleans, Ron Holland scored 26 points while Marcus Sasser added 20. Veteran guard Dennis Schroder contributed 16 points and five assists in the win.
Detroit has been strong on offense, scoring 136 points in their last outing. They rank 15th in field goal percentage and sixth in field goals made per game. The Pistons’ depth has helped maintain scoring balance during Cunningham’s absence.
Defensively, Detroit ranks 10th in opponent field goal percentage. Jalen Duren anchors the paint with 22 points and 12 rebounds in his last game. If Cunningham and Hardaway Jr. remain out, Detroit’s reserves will need to step up again. Ron Holland’s strong scoring form has become key, and he could have another big role if the Pistons remain shorthanded.
Spurs Preview – Can the Streak Continue?
The Spurs are riding a three-game win streak after beating Toronto 123-89 in their last game. Devin Vassell led the way with 25 points on 11-of-14 shooting. The Spurs built a big lead early and controlled the game throughout.
San Antonio ranks 15th in points per game but has struggled defensively. They sit 28th in third-quarter scoring defense, which has been a concern all season. With Victor Wembanyama and De’Aaron Fox out for the season, the Spurs have leaned on players like Vassell and Chris Paul to keep the offense moving.
San Antonio’s recent improvement has been sparked by better defensive intensity and efficient shooting. Vassell’s strong scoring this month (19.3 points per game) has provided a lift. They’ll need continued production from their guards and improved rebounding to stay competitive against Detroit.
Key Players to Watch
Ron Holland (Pistons) – Holland’s breakout performance against New Orleans shows his potential as a scoring threat. With Cunningham and Hardaway’s status uncertain, Holland may take on another major role.
Devin Vassell (Spurs) – Vassell has found his rhythm in March and is shooting efficiently. His ability to score while defending well will be key in slowing Detroit’s offense.
Jalen Duren (Pistons) – Duren’s presence in the paint gives Detroit an edge on the boards. His recent double-double effort against New Orleans shows his value in controlling the glass.
Betting Prediction
Detroit is favored in this matchup, but injuries to Cunningham and Hardaway Jr. create uncertainty. The Pistons have relied on their depth, while the Spurs have shown improvement during their recent winning streak. Detroit’s home record of 19-16 and their strong offensive performance last game provide an edge.
The Spurs’ road struggles and defensive issues make Detroit the safer pick if Cunningham plays. If Cunningham and Hardaway Jr. are both out, San Antonio’s recent form could keep things close. The total may also be worth considering given Detroit’s recent high-scoring games and San Antonio’s improving offense.
Pick: Pistons -3 | Over 225
