Two of the league’s hottest and stingiest teams collide as the San Antonio Spurs visit the Detroit Pistons. Both squads are riding long win streaks, fueled by elite defense and ascending stars. Something has to give in this clash of momentum and muscle.

Catch the game tomorrow, 8:00 AM, Manila time.

AWAY: San Antonio Spurs (40-16, 18-10 ROAD)

Projected starting five:

  • De’Aaron Fox
  • Devin Vassell
  • Stephon Castle
  • Julian Champagnie
  • Victor Wembanyama

San Antonio enters on an eight-game heater, averaging a blistering 127.9 points per game with a +16.1 net rating during that stretch. The Spurs are simply overwhelming teams on both ends. Their blend of size, speed, and shot-making has made them one of the most dangerous squads in the league right now – and that’s on top of their insane upside.

Victor Wembanyama continues to headline the rise, impacting the game far beyond the box score with his scoring, rim protection, and gravity. Stephon Castle and De’Aaron Fox provide dynamic guard play, pushing tempo and collapsing defenses. Around them, Devin Vassell spaces the floor, Harrison Barnes supplies veteran stability, and rookie Dylan Harper continues to grow into his role.

Defense remains the backbone. San Antonio ranks third in defensive rating, and that discipline fuels their transition attack. Against another elite defensive unit, execution and composure will be critical.

HOME: Detroit Pistons (42-13, 21-6 HOME)

Projected starting five:

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

Detroit is nearly matching San Antonio’s surge, winning five straight and eight of its last nine. Like the Spurs, the Pistons hang their hat on defense, ranking top three in both points allowed and defensive rating. Their physicality and connectivity have transformed them into a legitimate contender in the East.

Cade Cunningham is at the center of it all, emerging as a serious MVP candidate with 25.5 points and 9.8 assists per game. His command of pace and poise in crunch time have elevated Detroit’s ceiling. Jalen Duren, fresh off a 26-point, 13-rebound performance in his return from suspension, presents a fascinating matchup against Wembanyama in the paint.

Tobias Harris and Duncan Robinson stretch defenses with shooting, while Ausar Thompson adds perimeter grit. With confidence soaring and defense traveling, the Pistons are more than ready for this statement opportunity at home.

PICKS

Spread: Pistons (-1.5)

Over/Under: Under (228.5)