The Detroit Pistons are getting an early-season test with three games on the road against three of the most talked-about teams in the Eastern Conference. First up is a trip to Miami to face a Heat team now led by Giannis Antetokounmpo. Afterwards, they’ll jet off to face the Philadelphia 76ers and then the New York Knicks.
First up, though, is Giannis. The Heat were embarassed 131-106 against the Minnesota Timberwolves on their opening not. There isn’t much shame to be had on being on the receiving
end of a masterclass from Anthony Edwards, but 30-point blowouts are not what Miami had in mind when they traded for Giannis. The star forward equitted himself quite well, scoring 35 points and getting to the line 14 times. But outside Antetokounmpo, the lineup lacked punch and the bench was nonexistent. That was sorta the worry when Miami made their big moves.
For the Pistons, this could be a night where their depth is what propels them past the Heat. Detroit has a deep roster of folks who all defend their ass off, but can also occasionally pop off for buckets. Case in point, Game 1 hero Javonte Green. Perhaps tonight it will be Daniss Jenkins. Or maybe Ron Holland. Or maybe Isaiah Joe. But it feels like the game will be won when the lineups start changing.
Game Vitals
When: 8 p.m. ET
Where: Kaseya Center, Miami, Florida
Watch: TV: 20 Detroit | Streaming: DAZN
Odds: Pistons -1.5
Projected Lineups
Detroit Pistons (1-0)
Cade Cunningham, Duncan Robinson, Ausar Thompson, John Collins, Jalen Duren
Miami Heat (0-1)
Davion Mitchell, Klay Thompson, Andrew Wiggins, Giannis Antetokounmpo, Bam Adebayo
