Sat Jan 24 02:20:00 UTC 2026: ### Pistons Favored to Defeat Rockets in Friday Night Matchup
The Story:
The Detroit Pistons are set to host the Houston Rockets on Friday night in a highly anticipated NBA matchup. The Pistons, leading the Central Division with a 32-10 record, are favored by 3.5 points over the Rockets, who are 26-16 and second in the Southwest Division. Key player Cade Cunningham is listed as probable for Detroit, while the Rockets will be without Steven Adams, Tari Eason, and Dorian Finney-Smith due to injuries. SportsLine’s projection model forecasts a high-scoring game, predicting the total points will exceed the over/under of 217.5.
Key Points:
- The Detroit Pistons (32-10) are hosting the Houston Rockets (26-16) on Friday night.
- Detroit is a 3.5-point favorite, with the over/under set at 217.5 points.
- Cade Cunningham (hip) is probable for Detroit, while Steven Adams, Tari Eason, and Dorian Finney-Smith are out for Houston due to ankle injuries.
- SportsLine’s projection model predicts the game total will go over 217.5 points.
- The SportsLine model also has an against-the-spread pick that hits in more than 70% of simulations.
Key Takeaways:
- The Pistons, with a strong home record (17-4), are favored due to their overall performance and Houston’s injury situation.
- Cade Cunningham’s probable status is crucial for the Pistons’ offensive capabilities.
- Betting models suggest a high-scoring game, indicating potentially weak defenses or strong offensive performances are expected.
- The game provides an opportunity for both teams to solidify their positions within their respective divisions.
- SportsLine’s historical accuracy suggests that their betting advice should be seriously considered.