Up arrow
NBA
Games

New Orleans Pelicans vs. Detroit Pistons: Preview, Predictions and Picks for March 23, 2025

Updated on:
Mar 23, 2025 2:29 PM
The Detroit Pistons, sitting sixth in the Eastern Conference with a 39-32 record, are set to host the struggling New Orleans Pelicans, who are 14th in the Western Conference with a 19-52 record, at Little Caesars Arena on Sunday, March 23, 2025, at 3:00 PM. The Pistons look to build on their 1-0 series lead against the Pelicans, who are struggling on the road with a 7-29 record. This cross-conference matchup could be a crucial win for Detroit as they push for a strong playoff position.
New Orleans Pelicans vs Detroit Pistons

Current Odds

NO
DET
Over
224.5
-110
Under
229.5
-114
NO
+13.5
-105
DET
-10.0
-124
NO
ML
+700
DET
ML
-625

Detroit Pistons recent games

Game Date Opponent Result Score
3/21/25 @ Dallas Mavericks L 123-117
3/19/25 @ Miami Heat W 116-113
3/17/25 @ New Orleans Pelicans W 127-81
3/15/25 vs Oklahoma City Thunder L 113-107
3/13/25 vs Washington Wizards L 129-125

New Orleans Pelicans recent games

Game Date Opponent Result Score
3/21/25 @ Minnesota Timberwolves L 134-93
3/19/25 @ Minnesota Timberwolves W 119-115
3/17/25 vs Detroit Pistons L 127-81
3/15/25 @ San Antonio Spurs L 119-115
3/13/25 vs Orlando Magic L 113-93

Detroit Pistons injuries

  • Tim Hardaway Jr. (SF): Out
  • Jaden Ivey (PG): Out

New Orleans Pelicans injuries

  • Yves Missi (C): Day-To-Day
  • Jose Alvarado (PG): Day-To-Day
  • Zion Williamson (PF): Day-To-Day
  • Trey Murphy III (SG): Out
  • Brandon Boston (SG): Out

Pelicans vs Pistons game info

Type Info
Venue Little Caesars Arena
Location Detroit, MI
Tip-off Sun 3:00 PM
TV FanDuel SN DET

Pelicans vs Pistons predictions

When the New Orleans Pelicans take the court against the Detroit Pistons, my guess is that Zion Williamson will be the standout player for his team. With his impressive combination of size and agility, I believe he could score around 21.4 points while also contributing in other areas like assists and rebounds. Another player to watch is CJ McCollum, who tends to be a reliable scorer and playmaker. Perhaps, McCollum could manage around 20 points and dish out a handful of assists too. Of course, Jose Alvarado is likely to be an engine in the backcourt, though he might be careful with those assists and turnovers given his day-to-day status. Alvarado could also shine defensively with his ability to pick pockets and snatch those steals.

Turning our attention to the Detroit Pistons, Cade Cunningham seems to be the player everyone will be talking about. He has consistently proven to be a valuable asset on both ends of the floor. I anticipate he'll deliver another high-scoring game, possibly between 25 to 26 points, in addition to being a facilitator with his passing skills. Jalen Duren should be a force in the rebounding department; I’d predict a solid double-double for him, knowing his prowess under the basket. Malik Beasley also stands out with his scoring potential, perhaps putting up close to 21 points. Combining these elements, the Pistons' roster seems to balance both offense and defense quite effectively.

Now, you might wonder who’s going to come out on top when the dust settles at Little Caesars Arena. Well, considering the Pistons' overall performance and their impressive home record, I'm leaning towards Detroit securing the win. While the Pelicans do have some intriguing talents on their roster, the difference may come down to consistency and the absence of key players due to injuries. Detroit's blend of young talent and experienced players seems like a recipe for success in this matchup. So, what do you think? It’s shaping up to be an intriguing battle on the court, but my bet is on the Pistons defending their home turf.

Detroit Pistons

New Orleans Pelicans

No
New Orleans Pelicans
players

More Games