The Detroit Pistons will have another opportunity on national television to prove this season is the foundation of many more successful ones. On Wednesday night, they travel to Oklahoma City to face the Thunder, looking to avenge their March 15th loss. In that game, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander erupted for 48 points, and a string of technical fouls led to Cade Cunningham’s first career ejection, derailing the Pistons’ comeback attempt.
Pistons coach J.B. Bickerstaff voiced frustration over the officiating, arguing that the team’s physical, hard-nosed style isn’t getting the respect it deserves. Since that night, the Pistons have responded with a 5-2 record and a +65 margin, showing they can translate that intensity into wins. Now sitting as the fifth seed in the Eastern Conference, they face a brutal closing stretch against some of the league’s best teams.
The Pistons are 10-21 against teams above .500 this season, highlighting their struggles and potential, with signature wins over the Boston Celtics and Cleveland Cavaliers. Can they add another statement victory against an elite opponent in the Thunder?
A Win Over the Thunder Would Cement the Pistons’ Spot Among the NBA’s Best
Harris and Cunningham Return?
The Pistons have been without Cunningham for the last four games, a stretch that could have disrupted their momentum. Instead, they’ve continued to thrive, thanks partly to Dennis Schröder . The veteran guard has stepped up, averaging 12.8 points and 8.0 assists while keeping the offense steady in Cunningham’s absence.
He will be eager to make a statement against the Thunder after his frustrating performance in their last meeting. In that game, he struggled offensively, scoring just 11 points on 5/18 shooting before being ejected. Despite contributing seven rebounds and nine assists, the Pistons needed him to go shot-for-shot with Gilgeous-Alexander. While the Pistons kept the game close, having Cunningham available down the stretch might have changed the outcome.
Tobias Harris , meanwhile, missed Sunday’s game against Minnesota with an Achilles injury, leaving his status for Wednesday uncertain. His veteran presence would have been crucial in managing the emotions of a heated match that saw three Pistons ejected. If both Cunningham and Harris return, the Pistons will have a greater chance of securing a statement victory on national television.
Williams’ Return and Holmgren’s Impact
The Thunder were without Chet Holmgren and Jalen Williams in their last matchup against the Pistons. Williams, averaging 21.2 points on 47.9% shooting and 36.1% from three this season, recently returned after missing seven games. In his three games since returning, he has averaged 20.3 points, showing he’s quickly regaining form.
Holmgren has shown flashes of being a generational talent when healthy, but durability has been a concern. Despite his occasional absences, the Thunder have continued their strong play. He didn’t suit up against the Pistons in their March meeting, but his presence could be crucial this time. Holmgren is averaging 14.5 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 2.2 blocks per game—numbers that could make a significant impact against a Pistons team that thrives on attacking the paint.
Playing Short Handed
The Pistons took a significant hit as the NBA handed down suspensions to three key players following Sunday’s altercation with the Timberwolves. Marcus Sasser and Ron Holland will serve one-game suspensions, while Isaiah Stewart will miss two games. These penalties are a significant blow to a Pistons team that relies heavily on its bench production. Holland and Stewart provide crucial depth, while Sasser’s scoring ability will be especially missed if Cunningham and Harris can’t play.
The Pistons will need contributions from everyone to secure a win. Players like Paul Reed and Lindy Waters III must elevate their play to help fill the gaps. To prevail Wednesday night, Detroit must limit mistakes, lean on its defensive principles, and capitalize on fast-break opportunities.
The Last Word
With a national audience watching, the Detroit Pistons have a prime opportunity to prove they belong among the league’s top teams. A tough road test against the Oklahoma City Thunder will challenge their resilience, primarily if key starters like Cunningham and Harris don’t play and three others serving suspensions.
The Pistons have shown grit throughout the season, responding to adversity with strong performances. To secure a statement win, they must play disciplined basketball, contain SGA, and capitalize on their defensive identity. If they rise to the occasion, this game could be another stepping stone in their season turnaround. A statement win over the Thunder could change how people view Detriot, especially in a playoff setting.
Photo credit: © Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images
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