Expert prediction
Cleveland Cavaliers vs. Detroit Pistons Game 1 Preview, Odds & Predictions (May 5)
Pick rationale
Analysis & key factors
- The Pistons are coming off their first playoff series win since 2008.
- The Cavaliers won their third straight first-round series.
- Detroit came back from a 3-1 series deficit to beat the Magic in seven games.
The Eastern Conference gears up for the second series opener of the semifinals as the Detroit Pistons host the Cleveland Cavaliers in Game 1 on Tuesday night. The former stands out as the slight favorite, presenting the high stakes that will be actively present in this series opener.
How to Watch
- When: Tuesday, May 5, 7 pm ET
- Where: Little Caesars Arena, Detroit, Michigan
- How to Watch: Peacock
NBA Matchup Odds & Lines
| Team | Odds | Spread | Totals |
|---|---|---|---|
| CLE Cavaliers | -112 | +3.5 | O216.5 |
| DET Pistons | -108 | -3.5 | U216.5 |
Cavaliers vs Pistons Game Preview
Donovan Mitchell and the Cavaliers continue to be persistent as a solid playoff squad, taking down the Toronto Raptors in a tough seven-game series. Cleveland hopes to reach the East Finals for the first time since 2018, something that Detroit will look to make difficult for them. Mitchell produced 23.1 points, 4.9 rebounds and three assists per contest throughout the first-round series. James Harden came next with 20.6 points and 6.1 assists, while Evan Mobley averaged 18.1 points and 8.6 rebounds.
Cade Cunningham and the Pistons made sure their 60-win campaign didn’t end in disaster. After trailing 3-1 to the Orlando Magic, Detroit fought back by winning the last three games to earn their first series win since 2008. Cunningham played a crucial role in the series comeback, averaging 32.4 points, 7.1 assists and 5.7 rebounds per game. Tobias Harris delivered great displays as the second option with 21.6 points and 8.1 rebounds, while Ausar Thompson was a defensive monster with 8.6 points, 8.7 rebounds, 3.1 assists, 2.3 steals, and 2.3 blocks per game.
Cavaliers vs Pistons Predictions
Both teams will be on even ground in terms of energy levels after they both went through seven-game series in the first round. Detroit would have the momentum as they put together three consecutive wins with Cunningham showing off incredible form as an elite scorer. Mitchell and Harden will have their work cut out for them as Cleveland’s offense will be put to the test against an excellent Pistons defense. Our betting pick here is for the Pistons to defend a 3.5-point spread.
- Free NBA pick: Detroit Pistons -3.5
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