The Detroit Pistons are looking for a season-series sweep of the Los Angeles Lakers, and they’ll have to do it without Cade Cunningham.

Catch the game tomorrow, March 24th, at 7:00 AM, Manila time.

AWAY: Los Angeles Lakers (46-25, 23-13 ROAD)

Projected starting five:

  • Austin Reaves
  • Marcus Smart
  • Luka Doncic
  • LeBron James
  • DeAndre Ayton

The Lakers enter on a nine-game winning streak, fresh off a dramatic 105-104 victory over the Orlando Magic. Momentum is clearly on their side, fueled largely by Luka Doncic’s scorching stretch. Over an eight-game tear, he averaged 41 points, though he cooled slightly against Orlando with 33 points on 12-of-30 shooting. Even so, his shot creation and late-game control remain the engine behind this surge.

Their last meeting with Detroit didn’t go as planned. The Pistons cruised to a 128-106 win despite Doncic posting 30 points and 11 assists. LeBron James struggled with just 17 points on 6-of-17 shooting, and Austin Reaves sat out with an injury. This time, the Lakers will look far more complete.

DeAndre Ayton’s role looms large. His hot-and-cold defensive presence will be tested against All-Star-caliber big Jalen Duren. If Ayton holds his ground inside, the Lakers’ perimeter firepower could tilt the rematch.

HOME: Detroit Pistons (51-19, 26-8 HOME)

Projected starting five:

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

Detroit is 6-1 in its last seven with a dominant +16.3 net rating, and that’s with their main man Cade Cunningham mostly out. The Pistons have leaned into defense, depth, and physicality, and it’s paying off. Their earlier blowout of the Lakers showed just how dangerous they can be when everything clicks.

With Cunningham sidelined due to a lung injury, Jalen Duren has stepped into the spotlight. He’s averaging 22.7 points and 8.9 rebounds over his last eight games and will be eager for another strong showing against Ayton. Backup guard Daniss Jenkins has provided steady minutes, helping stabilize the rotation.

Detroit’s depth remains a strength. Duncan Robinson and Tobias Harris stretch the floor, Ausar Thompson adds defensive chaos, and Caris LeVert supplies scoring punch. Combined with a top-four ranking in both points allowed and defensive rating, the Pistons have the structure to stay competitive, even against a streaking Lakers squad.

PICKS

Spread: Pistons (+2)
Over/Under: Over (226.5)