Oklahoma City Thunder (31-13) vs. Detroit Pistons (5-39)
In an intriguing matchup set for this Sunday, the high-flying Oklahoma City Thunder take on the struggling Detroit Pistons at Little Caesars Arena. As the NBA regular season progresses, this game offers a stark contrast in team dynamics and performance, setting the stage for what many might consider a predictable outcome. Yet, in the realm of NBA picks and prediction, surprises are never far off, making this game a curious fixture for fans and bettors alike.
Oklahoma City Thunder has been nothing short of remarkable this season, boasting an outstanding 31-13 record that stands as evidence of their teamwork and strategic prowess. Averaging 121.9 points per game with a field goal percentage of 50.5% and 3-point shooting accuracy at 39.2% along with a free throw percentage of 83.5% are just among its many impressive statistics. Defensively they average 8.3 steals and 6.5 blocks per game to effectively disrupt opponents’ plays and keep opponents at bay.
Detroit Pistons season has been riddled with challenges, evidenced by their 5-39 record. Yet despite these difficulties, the Pistons still display signs of competitiveness; evidenced by their scoring average of 112.5 points per game and decent field goal percentage (47.2%). Furthermore, their 3-point shooting accuracy (35.2%) and free throw percentage of 77.55% both indicate areas where leverage could be found; their 11 offensive rebounds per game suggest their fighting spirit in seizing second chance points as part of their game plan against Thunder.
Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Detroit Pistons Game Info
| When: | Sunday, January 28, 2024, at 2:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Little Caesars Arena |
| TV: | BSDET |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (PG) vs. Bojan Bogdanovic (SF)
Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has played a team-high 43 games with 43 starts, averaging over 34 minutes a night. He’s posting MVP-caliber numbers of 31.1 points, 5.6 rebounds, 6.4 assists and 2.3 steals per game. His shooting splits are impressive as well at 50/39/84. Though he turns the ball over 2.1 times per contest, his 3.1 assist-to-turnover ratio remains solid for a high-usage guard. Defensively, he contributes close to a steal and block per game.
Meanwhile, Bojan Bogdanovic has suited up for 23 games with 22 starts. In 33 minutes a night, he’s averaging 20.2 points, 3.6 boards and 2.7 dimes. While his 47/35/78 shooting line is respectable, he doesn’t provide much else beyond scoring. His rebounding and playmaking numbers are modest for his position, and he contributes negligible defense with less than a steal and block. His 2.2 turnovers per outing also limit his overall efficiency and impact.
This matchup heavily favors Gilgeous-Alexander, who outpaces Bogdanovic in nearly every statistical category. Detroit’s lack of perimeter stoppers means Gilgeous-Alexander should have his way attacking off the dribble and either finishing at the rim or creating open looks. Bogdanovic will need to catch fire from 3-point range for the Pistons to have a chance, but OKC has enough defensive versatility to make life difficult for him.
NBA Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
With the betting odds yet to be determined, the Thunder’s favorable record and overall team statistics position them as likely favorites in this matchup. However, bettors should keep an eye on the spread and moneyline as they become available, considering the potential for the Pistons to cover the spread, especially given their recent trend of performing well against it.
Oklahoma City Thunder Betting Trends
The Thunder have performed extremely well against the spread recently, covering in three of their past five contests. They’ve also been a sound bet away from home, going 13-8 ATS on the road. Furthermore, OKC games have tended to surpass betting totals, going over in three of five and 12 of 22 at Chesapeake Energy Arena.
Detroit Pistons Betting Trends
Despite owning the NBA’s worst record, the Pistons have actually made bettors plenty of money in recent outings. They’ve covered the spread in each of their last five matchups. Detroit has also gone over the total in three of their previous five. And at home, Pistons’ games have exceeded betting lines in 11 of their last 23 at Little Caesars Arena.
Oklahoma City Thunder vs. Detroit Pistons 1/28/24 Betting Picks
Considering the analysis and betting trends, the Oklahoma City Thunder appear poised to secure a victory against the Detroit Pistons. However, the Pistons’ recent trend of covering the spread cannot be overlooked, offering a potential avenue for value in betting. The key matchup between Shai Gilgeous-Alexander and Bojan Bogdanovic will be crucial, with Gilgeous-Alexander’s all-around game likely giving the Thunder the edge.
In terms of betting picks, while the Thunder might be the safer pick for a straight win, the Pistons could offer value in covering the spread, especially if it’s set generously in their favor. As for the over/under, the tendency of both teams to be involved in higher-scoring games suggests that the OVER might be worth considering. For top live betting, keep an eye on in-game dynamics, particularly the performance of key players and any shifts in momentum.
