The Detroit Pistons doubled down on team chemistry and didn’t make any drastic moves at the NBA trade deadline, instead adding Dennis Schroder and Lindy Waters III along with a couple of second-round picks.
The two newest Pistons could make their debut today against the Hornets but are still listed as questionable.
Speaking of questionable, the Hornets’ trade that send Mark Williams to the Lakers has been nixed after the big man failed his physical, which is interesting, as the Lakers reportedly brought the same deal to the Pistons for Duren.
It doesn’t sound like the injury is related to his back, and the Hornets’ injury report has not yet been updated, so it’s unclear whether Williams will play today.
Detroit was rewarded for sticking with their team, as they all stepped up against Philadelphia, particularly Malik Beasley, and got a win with Cade Cunningham on the bench in street clothes, a nice boost of confidence for the guys who thrived in his absence.
Today’s game is the last of the 6-game home stand and a win would give the Pistons a 4-2 record over that stretch. They will hit the road for four games after, but will have a chance to add some wins, as they play the Bulls twice, Spurs and Hawks before coming back home for four.
The Pistons’ schedule will lighten up as it goes, as they have just the 25th- most difficult remaining strength of schedule over their final 30 games. You don’t win games on paper, but after a couple of tough stretches, this is a good chance for Detroit to make up some ground in the standings, where they are currently 6th but just two games behind the Bucks for the 5th spot.
Pistons injuries vs. Hornets: Is Cade Cunningham playing today?
Cade Cunningham is listed as probable, so it’s likely he’ll be back today against the Hornets. The Hornets have won just 13 games this season and only two of their last 10 but that’s why Cade should return, as this is one the Pistons can’t afford to lose.
Jaden Ivey is still out and we’ll have to wait until game time to see if Schroder and Waters III make their debut.
The Hornets will be missing Josh Green, Tre Mann, Brandon Miller, Josh Okogie and Grant Williams. Nick Richards Jr. is listed as questionable, as is the recently acquired Jusuf Nurkic. We’ll have to wait and see on Nurkic as well as Mark Williams.
How to watch Pistons vs. Hornets
There is an early tip off at 1:00 PM ET to account for some football game that is going on today, and you can watch on FanDuel Sports Network Detroit or listen on 97.1 FM The Ticket.
You will find many streaming options here for those without cable.