The Detroit Pistons are set to face rivals the Cleveland Cavaliers on Friday, November 12th at 7:30 PM (ET). The Pistons go into the game 2-9 after a fairly comfortable win over the Houston Rockets on Wednesday night. Though, the Cavaliers are 7-5 for the season so the Pistons are going to be the heavy underdog.

The win also came against a young Rockets team that looks like the worst in the league this season so we’re not expecting much from the Pistons on Friday night. It’s going to be much harder, but hopefully getting that win on Wednesday would have given some much-needed confidence. 

Let’s take a look at the Pistons vs. Cavaliers preview for both teams as well as give you our predictions for the game.

Detroit Pistons Preview

The Pistons fought hard for their second win of the season on Wednesday against the Houston Rockets. Both teams went into it with only one win and it turned out to be an exciting game. The two first pick rookies Cade Cunningham and Jalen Green went head to head and whilst Green scored more points, the Pistons won the game. Both rookies showed why they were among the first picks, and it looks like Cunningham is finally getting into his groove. The Pistons were the more-rounded team with Grant and Saddiq Bey supporting the rookie.

But, facing the Cavaliers is going to be an even harder test who has third pick Evan Mobley who has slotted into the Cavs team nicely. They look like the more complete side and one that is competing for the Eastern Conference whilst the Pistons’ main aim at the moment is to get off the bottom.

Cleveland Cavaliers Preview

The Cavaliers go into the game on a one-loss streak after losing 94-97 to the Washington Wizards who remain tied at the top of the Eastern Conference with the Bulls. It was a tight game, the Cavaliers will be annoyed to have lost that, especially as it was a late three-point shot that won the game.

So, we expect them to go full throttle against the Pistons to get back on that winning streak. The loss definitely wouldn’t have made them lose any confidence.

The Cavaliers still have injuries though, Sexton, Love, and Markkanen are all out. Still, with Mobley looking like he could pick up rookie of the year and Allen alongside there’s plenty of power left in this Cleveland team to upset the Pistons.

Pistons vs Cavaliers Prediction

Who is going to win this local rivalry? Our money is on the Cavaliers (-3.5). 

Even with key players missing, the Cavs should come out on top. Although, if the odds are good enough we might look at betting the Pistons Moneyline. Remember though, the Pistons travel to the Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse arena which won’t be a friendly atmosphere for the away team.