Detroit Pistons (8-44) vs. Phoenix Suns (31-22)
Detroit Pistons vs. Phoenix Suns 2/14/24 – As the NBA season advances, an exciting clash awaits this Wednesday between Detroit Pistons and Phoenix Suns; their dynamic journeys provide for an intriguing comparison. Fans and bettors alike are keen on NBA free predictions for this matchup due to contrasting performances between both squads.
The Detroit Pistons have had an inconsistent season as evidenced by their 8-44 record, as evidenced by performance metrics: Avg 113.2 PPG with 47.5 FGP shows they can score but struggle on defense; 3-Point shooting percentage at 36.3 provides another competitive edge that has yet to translate to wins; assist-turnover ratio and defensive statistics reveal improvements needed so their efforts lead to wins.
At 31-22, Phoenix Suns have cemented themselves as one of the league’s elite teams with their impressive season. Boasting an average scoring efficiency of 117.4 points per game on 49.9% field goal percentage and 37.9% 3-point accuracy and free throw percentage (81%), their scoring efficiency marks them out as scoring maestros. In addition, their balanced approach can be seen through outstanding rebounding and defensive play that rivals any of their competition.
Detroit Pistons vs. Phoenix Suns 2/14/24 Game Info
| When: | Wednesday, February 14, 2024, at 9:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Footprint Center |
| TV: | AZFamily |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Cade Cunningham (PG) vs. Kevin Durant (PF)
Cade Cunningham has shown flashes of brilliance in his second NBA season. He’s averaging 22.4 points, 7.5 assists and 4 rebounds per game. Cunningham has a versatile scoring arsenal along with playmaking skills to set up teammates. However, he does struggle with efficiency at times and commits 3.6 turnovers per contest.
Kevin Durant remains one of the most dominant offensive forces in the game despite being 34 years old. He’s putting up 28.3 points per game on nearly 50/40/90 shooting splits this season. Durant can score from all three levels and causes matchup problems for any defender. His length also makes him a solid rebounder and shot blocker. But he has missed time with injuries and doesn’t have the same explosive athleticism he once did.
When these two stars match up, Durant clearly has the edge in experience and overall talent level. Cunningham has All-Star potential down the road, but he’s not at KD’s MVP level yet. Durant should be able to exploit his size and skill advantage to pile up points. For the Pistons to have a chance, Cunningham needs to limit his mistakes and hope his teammates provide enough secondary scoring support.
NBA Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Over/Under: TBD
The betting odds for this game are not yet released, however, the Suns enter this contest that seems more favorable. Based on the Suns’ dominance at home and Detroit’s road woes, laying the points with the favorite seems warranted.
Detroit Pistons Betting Trends
The Detroit Pistons have gone 2-3 straight up in their last five games, showing some signs of life despite their terrible overall record. However, they have performed well against the spread recently, covering in four of their previous five contests. For bettors, that could present an opportunity to take the points with Detroit as sizable underdogs. On the road this season, the Pistons are an impressive 14-11 against the number as well.
Phoenix Suns Betting Trends
The Phoenix Suns have leveled off a bit lately, going 3-2 straight up and against the spread over their last five games. For a team with championship aspirations, Phoenix has been mediocre for bettors at home, posting a 13-13 mark versus the spread at Footprint Center. That means they are not reliable when laying big numbers on their home court. The totals have also stayed under more often than not for the Suns recently, going under in three of their previous five contests.
Detroit Pistons vs. Phoenix Suns 2/14/24 Betting Picks
Based on available data and trends, the Suns appear to be the safer pick in this matchup. Their balanced attack and strong defense give them an advantage against an underperforming Pistons squad; however, recent performance against the spread indicates they might make this game close and cover even in defeat.
Prop bettors looking at player performance metrics such as points for Durant and assists for Cunningham may find value when betting prop bets. The over/under will depend on total points odds when available; but given both teams’ scoring prowess and recent over trends, total could lean higher.
The best handicapper predictions lean on the Suns’ overall efficiency and home-court advantage to secure a comfortable win against the Pistons, whose effort is unlikely to overcome the Suns’ offensive firepower and defensive resilience.
Free Pick and Prediction: Phoenix Suns 115, Detroit Pistons 105.