The league-leading Thunder haven’t lost many games this season, but the Pistons will hold a distinct advantage over them in both upcoming matchups. In both contests, the Thunder will be on the second night of a back-to-back while the Pistons have a day of rest beforehand. The Pistons have been proving themselves against the league’s best and will look to carry that momentum into games against the Thunder.
Oklahoma City has been very impressive this season, but their worst losses have come on the second night of a back-to-back. That’s where they’ve suffered 4 of their 7 losses, and their worst performances overall. In their most recent back-to-back, the Thunder were shockingly blown out by the Hornets.
The Pistons will be ready for the Thunder
Despite understandable concerns about their shooting, the Pistons are finding success with their current roster. Regardless of whether or not they pursue a shooting upgrade in the trade market, Detroit will be ready for all challengers. Their intense play style could be too much for the Thunder to handle on a rest disadvantage.
In both games between the Pistons and Thunder, the two teams’ MVP candidates can expect tough times. The Pistons have multiple versatile defenders to throw at Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and force him into uncomfortable shots. His mastery of drawing fouls could mean trouble for Detroit’s defense but the Pistons have more experienced options in that case too.
On the other hand, Cade Cunningham will have his hands full with Oklahoma City’s defensive corps. He’s typically an impossible matchup for opponents but the Thunder have multiple defenders capable of keeping up with him. They’re also known for forcing turnovers, which remains a weakness in Cade’s offensive game.
With the Thunder’s formidable defense, Cade won’t be able to beat them alone. He needs help from his teammates and a secondary playmaker. The Pistons are hoping to find someone to fill that role on the team, but may expand their search to trade targets if OKC dismantles them.
For most of the season, the Thunder and Pistons have paced their respective conferences. Their eventual matchups in February and March will be titanic clashes with potential playoff ramifications. The two teams have similar formulas with defensive depth and a superstar guard to carry the offense.
The Pistons’ rest advantage in both upcoming contests will give them a hidden advantage against the defending champions. Regardless of both teams’ schedules, any win over a team as dominant as Oklahoma City is a major statement. The Pistons will hope to make that declaration of their postseason ambitions just in time for the final playoff push.
February 25th in Detroit and March 30th in Oklahoma City - mark your calendars, Pistons fans.