The Detroit Pistons, currently leading the Eastern Conference, are facing a significant injury crisis. Despite a thrilling overtime victory against the Washington Wizards on Monday while short-handed, the team’s roster has been further depleted with stars Cade Cunningham and Jalen Duren now added to the injury report.
Tonight, the Pistons host a Chicago Bulls team that has exceeded early-season expectations. After defeating Detroit on opening night, the Bulls started the season 5-0. While they have since lost four of their last five contests, the defeats came in competitive games against strong opponents, including narrow losses to the Cavaliers and Spurs.
The Pistons’ injury list is extensive. Following Monday’s game, Cunningham was added to the report with a left hip contusion, and his status has been downgraded to questionable. Duren is listed as probable with an ankle injury. They join a long list of sidelined players, with Ausar Thompson, Jaden Ivey, Marcus Sasser, and Tobias Harris all ruled out. Additionally, Isaiah Stewart is listed as doubtful.
Even at full strength, Detroit would face a challenge against the improved Bulls. With the roster severely depleted, tonight’s game will be a significant test of the team’s depth. If Cunningham is unable to play, two-way guard Daniss Jenkins is expected to see an expanded role after his breakout 24-point performance against Washington, which included a three-pointer that forced overtime.
A key matchup to watch will be Jalen Duren’s perimeter defense against Bulls center Nikola Vucevic, who is having a strong bounce-back season and exploited that matchup on opening night. The game will also feature the debut of the Pistons’ new “City Edition” jerseys.
Where: Little Caesars Arena, Detroit, MI
When: Wednesday, Nov. 12, 7:00 PM EST
Watch: Fan Duel Sports Network Detroit
Odds: Pistons (-2.5)
