After an impressive 115-94 win over the Brooklyn Nets on Saturday night, the Detroit Pistons will head on another West Coast road trip riding a wave of momentum. Finishing a 3-1 homestand, the Pistons aim to carry momentum on the road, where they hold a 17-13 record . The Pistons, winning 9 of their last 10, boast sky-high confidence with a 20-10 record in their last 30 games.
This season has completely changed the narrative for the Pistons. Once viewed as a lottery team, they’ve emerged as a potential dark horse in the Eastern Conference. As their strong stretch continues, the upcoming four-game road trip is a crucial test for the Pistons’ playoff aspirations.
Pistons Eye Key Wins in Upcoming West Coast Road Trip
Pistons’ Road Trip Begins in Salt Lake City
Sitting at 15-45, the Utah Jazz are currently one of the worst teams in the NBA. However, they’ve had the Pistons’ number in recent years, holding a 7-2 edge over the Pistons in their last nine matchups, including a current four-game winning streak.
Lately, the Pistons have been doing a better job of taking care of business against teams they’re expected to beat. With the Jazz eyeing 2025 draft positioning, the Pistons have a prime opportunity to make a statement in Utah. Winning this game will set the tone right for the rest of the next game in the Pistons’ road trip.
First Game in the Intuit Dome
The last time these two teams met, the Pistons came out on top in a defensive battle, winning 106-97. That victory was significant, marking the Pistons’ first win against the Clippers in five seasons after an 0-8 skid . The Pistons’ last win in Los Angeles against the Clippers came on January 19, 2019, during the Blake Griffin return game, where he scored 44 points.
However, that recent win came with some caveats. The Clippers were without Norman Powell , who’s been averaging 23.8 points per game and could have made a major difference. The Pistons can’t rely on the Clippers shooting 27% from three, 40% from the field, and 63% from the line again, especially at home.
This matchup will also be the Pistons’ first game in the Clippers’ brand-new stadium, where the home team will be eager to set a winning tone. If the Pistons want to sweep the season series, they’ll need to bring their A-game.
A New-Look Warriors Team
The last time the Pistons and Warriors faced off, Golden State edged out a 107-104 victory. This result was part of a larger trend, as the Warriors hold a 7-2 record against the Pistons since the 2020-21 season. The Pistons’ last road win against Golden State was on January 4, 2023, when Bey hit a game-winning three.
However, the Warriors will be a completely different team this time around. With Jimmy Butler now in the lineup, they’ve been playing inspired basketball and are pushing hard to climb the standings in the Western Conference. Since both teams are eager for a win, this game is crucial for each playoff aspirations.
Relentless Blazers Squad
The last meeting between the Pistons and Trail Blazers saw Detroit emerge victorious in a 118-115 battle. Portland has had the upper hand recently, winning seven of the last nine matchups against the Pistons. The Pistons’ last win in Portland was on February 8, 2024, when Jalen Duren posted 27 points and 22 rebounds.
Currently sitting 12th in the Western Conference, the Blazers still have a shot at the play-in tournament. Chauncey Billups has done an excellent job maximizing his roster’s potential, with every player competing hard every night regardless of the standings. The Pistons have experienced that fight at home and must stay cautious in Portland’s challenging environment.
The Last Word
The Detroit Pistons’ West Coast road trip is a key opportunity to build momentum and strengthen their playoff position. With matchups against teams like the Jazz, Clippers, Warriors, and Trail Blazers, the Pistons will face a mix of struggling opponents and playoff contenders, each posing a unique challenge.
For a team that has already defied expectations this season maintaining their confidence and focus will be key. If the Pistons handle expected wins and upset some tough opponents, they could return home in a stronger position. This road trip could define their playoff hopes and prove if the squad is ready for the next step.
Photo credit: © Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images
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