[7:00 PM] Celtics @ Pistons

Who will WIN this matchup?

Boston Celtics (6-6)

@ Detroit Pistons (6-7)

 

• The line for this game is Detroit by 3.5 points.

• The Boston Celtics and Detroit Pistons both gave disappointing performances on the front end of a back-to-back and are seeking better showings when they meet Saturday in Detroit. Boston gave a subpar performance in a 104-88 home loss to the Golden State Warriors on Friday while the Pistons were just as woeful while suffering a 104-81 road loss against the Cleveland Cavaliers.

• While Thomas delivered some stinging comments when expressing his frustrations after Friday’s loss, coach Brad Stevens wasn’t flinching. Stevens understands that players will be vocal in the heat of the moment and he repeatedly keeps the big picture in mind and doesn’t succumb to in-game desires.

• Van Gundy hinted at lineup changes after the poor showing against Cleveland and one player who he may target is power forward Marcus Morris. The sixth-year pro scored just seven points for the third consecutive contest and he is just 9-of-32 shooting during the stretch. Morris got off to a solid start by averaging 16.4 points over the first eight games but he is averaging just 8.4 points on 32.8 percent shooting over the last five games.

• The teams split four meetings last season with the largest differential being seven points.

• Detroit is a dominating 5-0 at home with an average winning margin of 17.4 points.

• Boston will be without C Al Horford (concussion) for the 10th straight game, while SF Jae Crowder (ankle) likely will miss his ninth consecutive game.

 

StreakSmarts Pick: Detroit Pistons

Confidence: 5/10

Confidence
StreakSmarter Pick
Previous Pick
Next Pick