Detroit Pistons – Houston Rockets: clash at the top
Another big game in NBA Rivals Week — two of the league’s best: the Pistons and the Rockets. Both teams have been serving up top-level basketball all season, but it’s the defense that stands out. That promises a weird, low-scoring grind in an era used to fireworks.
Detroit Pistons: flexing at home 
Detroit are staking a serious claim as the team to watch after the Thunder. Seven wins in eight have J.B. Bickerstaff’s side sitting comfortable atop the East. The scary bit? Their defense. Over the last eight games the most they’ve allowed in a single outing is 110. Across that stretch they’re surrendering just 97.4 points per game — absurd in the 2026 NBA.
Wins over the Celtics (104-103) and the Pacers (121-78 — not a typo) sent a clear message. Back at home for two games, where they thrive with 17 wins in 21, the Pistons also pack the 11th-best offense in the league at 117.2 points a night. If Cade Cunningham suits up, Detroit will be well placed to extend a four-game streak.
INJURY REPORT : Cade Cunningham (questionable) – Ron Holland II (probable) – Caris LeVert (doubtful) – Duncan Robinson (probable)
Houston Rockets: bounce back immediately
Before falling in overtime to the 76ers (122-128), the Rockets had ripped off three straight wins, beating the Spurs (111-106) and Wolves (110-105). Good form — mainly at home. The trip to Philadelphia highlighted how shaky they are on the road: just 11 wins in 24 away games this season.
Against Detroit, the league’s 4th-best defense (111.0 points allowed) will have to show up to compete with a Pistons side that’s hot defensively. Owning the glass will be crucial to deny second chances. The Rockets lead the league in rebounds with 49.0 per game. That board control fuels their offense, but it’ll be revealing to see how Kevin Durant and Alperen Sengun handle Detroit’s pressure.
INJURY REPORT : Steven Adams (OUT)
NBA Pick Detroit Pistons vs Houston Rockets
Pistons to win
The Pistons will have the crowd behind them and they arrive in red-hot form. Houston struggle on the road this season and are playing their second game in two nights away from home. This title-contender clash looks like a defensive slog, but Detroit’s edge in freshness and circumstance points to a Pistons victory.
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