All the inconsistency on both sides comes down to this: a win-or-go home Game 7. Who will get it done?

Catch the game Saturday, May 16th, at 8:00 AM, Manila time. 

AWAY: Cleveland Cavaliers (3-3)

Projected starting five: 

  • James Harden
  • Donovan Mitchell
  • Dean Wade
  • Evan Mobley
  • Jarrett Allen

Cleveland had the perfect opportunity to close the series at home in Game 6, but instead delivered one of its flattest performances of the postseason. The Cavaliers looked low-energy from the opening tip and were blown out 115-94 in a closeout game and shot just 39% – an unacceptable showing for a team with championship aspirations.

The stars, in particular, failed to rise to the occasion. Donovan Mitchell and James Harden combined to shoot a dreadful 12-of-33 from the field, once again fueling the playoff criticism that has followed both players throughout their careers. Cleveland’s offense lacked rhythm, urgency, and aggression, especially once Detroit gained confidence early.

Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen competed hard and did what they could inside, but the collective edge simply wasn’t there. Max Strus, who swung Game 5 with his shooting, came crashing back to earth with just six points and a 2-of-9 performance. That unpredictability has defined Cleveland’s postseason run. At their best, they look like contenders. At their worst, they look completely disconnected. The biggest question entering Game 7 is simple: which version shows up?

HOME: Detroit Pistons (3-3)

Projected starting five:

  • Cade Cunningham
  • Duncan Robinson
  • Ausar Thompson
  • Tobias Harris
  • Jalen Duren

Detroit may not have expected this series to become such a grind, but the Pistons continue to survive under pressure. They are now 4-0 in elimination games this postseason – an impressive feat, though also a reminder that the East’s top seed has repeatedly put itself in difficult situations.

Cade Cunningham remains the engine, but too often he has looked stranded offensively, forced to create everything himself. The encouraging sign from Game 6 was the emergence of Jalen Duren, who finally delivered his first truly impactful game of the playoffs with 15 points and 11 rebounds. If that performance sparks confidence, Detroit suddenly becomes much more balanced.

Tobias Harris, however, must respond after disappearing in Game 6 with only six points on 2-of-7 shooting in limited minutes. Meanwhile, Duncan Robinson and Ausar Thompson have continued playing solid supporting roles, while Daniss Jenkins and Paul Reed gave the Pistons valuable energy off the bench last game.

Now, with the home crowd behind them and momentum back on their side, Detroit has one final chance to prove why it earned the East’s top seed in the first place.

PICKS

Spread: Cavaliers (+4.5)
Over/Under: Under (206.5)