Philadelphia 76ers vs. Detroit Pistons: Predictions, Starting Lineups (12/13/23)

The Philadelphia 76ers (15-7) travel to face the sinking Detroit Pistons (2-21) this Wednesday (12/14/23). Get 76ers vs. Pistons moneyline and spread odds, as well as predictions, starting lineups, injuries, and key matchups below.

Philadelphia 76ers vs. Detroit Pistons Prediction

This Pistons defense is surrendering the second most field goal attempts within eight feet of the basket. To make matters worse, Jalen Duren and Marvin Bagley will both miss this contest, so Detroit’s center options are James Wiseman and forward Isaiah Stewart. Yikes!

Unfortunately for them, Joel Embiid is in town tonight. The reigning MVP is averaging 33.4 points on a quality 63.3 true shooting percentage. Embiid will absolutely massacre this injured, undersized, porous Pistons defense with ease. Plus, Detroit ranks 27th in opponent free throw attempt rate. Given Embiid’s size advantage, the Pistons likely constantly foul him in an effort to slow him down, thus leading to Embiid racking up free throws and easy points.

Opposing point guards also average the most points per game against Detroit because their guards cannot stay in front of ball handlers or navigate screens. Tyrese Maxey will be a blur off-the-dribble, especially in transition. He should consistently penetrate the paint and create significant advantages for himself and spot up shooters. With Maxey and Embiid set to dominate, Philadelphia’s offense should crush Detroit’s defense.

Meanwhile, the Pistons are a drive-heavy team that spam pick-and-rolls and take few three-pointers. Embiid ranks third across the NBA in rim points saved per 75 possessions (via Basketball Index), so his presence will disrupt an already ineffective Pistons offense. De’Anthony Melton will also be a defensive pest on the perimeter, while Philadelphia’s wings can hold their own.

Overall, the 76ers own a significant talent advantage, and they sit in a perfect position to exploit Detroit’s weaknesses. Look for Philadelphia to control this game from start to finish against a rebuilding squad that has not won a game since before Halloween.

Philadelphia 76ers vs. Detroit Pistons Prediction: 76ers -11.5 & 76ers Winning at End of Every Quarter

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Philadelphia 76ers vs. Detroit Pistons Best Odds

Philadelphia enters this contest favored by a massive 11.5 points; they currently rank fifth against the spread with a 68.2 cover percentage. Detroit needs to win about 15.4 percent of the time for their +550 moneyline to be profitable in the long run. Their last victory came on October 28th against the Chicago Bulls.

Philadelphia 76ers Starting Lineup

PG: Tyrese Maxey
SG: De’Anthony Melton
SF: Tobias Harris
PF: Nicolas Batum
C: Joel Embiid

Detroit Pistons Starting Lineup

PG: Cade Cunningham
SG: Killian Hayes
SF: Ausar Thompson
PF: Bojan Bogdanovic
C: Isaiah Stewart

Philadelphia 76ers vs. Detroit Pistons Injuries

Jalen Duren, Marvin Bagley, and Monte Morris are all for Detroit, while the 76ers own a completely clean injury report. Advantage 76ers.

Philadelphia 76ers vs. Detroit Pistons Key Matchups

Pistons 3PT Shooting

Because the Pistons face an immense amount of disadvantages, their best path to pulling off the upset is getting scorching hot from deep. Bojan Bogdanovic and Cade Cunningham currently combine for 13.5 three-point attempts per game; they need to shoot at least 45% to give them an outside chance. Alec Burks is another player that can aid in this department. He has made 389 of his last 956 attempts, good for 40.7%. If Detroit continues their three-point woes, then it will be extremely difficult for them to avoid a blowout.

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Braxton has been covering the NBA for Lineups since the 2022 season. He's worked with multiple collegiate coaching staffs regarding analytics and scouting, which has allowed him to understand the game on a deeper level. Braxton is also a contributor at Thunderous Intentions.

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