Dallas Mavericks vs Detroit Pistons – NBA Preview – January 31, 2025

The Dallas Mavericks continue their road trip with a visit to Little Caesars Arena to face the Detroit Pistons on Thursday night. Dallas comes in at 26-22, sitting eighth in the Western Conference, while Detroit is 23-24 and holding onto the eighth spot in the East. The two teams meet for the first time this season, with the Pistons winning their last matchup in April 2024.
Both teams are coming off road games, with Dallas securing a 137-136 win over New Orleans on Wednesday, while Detroit dropped a 133-119 decision to Indiana. The Mavericks are dealing with key injuries, including Luka Doncic, but have seen strong performances from their frontcourt players.
Mavericks Preview – Can the Frontcourt Carry the Load?
Dallas has had to rely on its depth with Doncic still sidelined due to a calf injury. P.J. Washington and Daniel Gafford stepped up in the win over New Orleans, with Washington posting 25 points, 14 rebounds, and eight assists, while Gafford had 22 points on a perfect 9-for-9 shooting night. Kyrie Irving added 25 points and continues to be the team’s primary offensive option.
Despite the injuries, Dallas remains one of the better offensive teams in the league, shooting 48.0% from the field and averaging 115.9 points per game. However, their defense has been inconsistent, giving up 113.5 points per game. The Mavericks will need to tighten up on that end against a Pistons team that can be dangerous at home.
With a 12-12 record on the road, the Mavericks will look to keep their momentum going before heading into the tougher part of their road trip.
Pistons Preview – Can Cunningham Keep Detroit Competitive?
Detroit returns home after a five-game road trip, where they went 2-3, including a tough loss to Indiana on Wednesday. Cade Cunningham was a bright spot, scoring 32 points and dishing out nine assists. He has been Detroit’s best player all season, averaging 26.8 points and 8.7 assists in January.
Detroit has been a much-improved team compared to last season, but consistency remains an issue. Their offense ranks in the middle of the league at 113.5 points per game, but their defense has struggled, allowing opponents to shoot 46.7% from the field. Against an efficient Dallas offense, the Pistons will need to improve their perimeter defense.
With a 10-11 home record, Detroit will look to start their six-game homestand on a positive note. The Pistons also have recent success against Dallas, winning their last meeting 107-89.
Betting Prediction
Dallas is favored by 1.5 points, with the total set at 229.5. The Mavericks have been a strong offensive team but are missing key players, including Doncic. Detroit has been solid at home and will look to capitalize on Dallas’ defensive lapses.
While the Mavericks have been competitive, Detroit has a chance to pull off the upset if Cunningham continues his strong play. Expect a close game, but Dallas has the slight edge with Irving leading the charge.
Pick: Mavericks -1.5