NBA Basketball
2025-12-22 - Detroit Pistons at Portland Trail Blazers
A Sports Betting Pick by FirstDown
United States : NBA Basketball
Monday 22nd December 2025 - Scheduled 10pm
3am (British Time)
Preview
Injuries to key players in the Boston Celtics lineup have opened the Eastern Conference to a number of contenders and the Detroit Pistons (22-6) have made the fastest start. No one denies the obvious talent on the roster, but the Pistons are more dangerous knowing they have had some Playoff experience in 2025.
They are looking for a sixth win in seven games as one of two Eastern Conference teams that have yet to lose at least ten games in the early part of this NBA season.
This is going to be a tough road test at the Portland Trail Blazers (12-16) who have been a little streaky of late- they have won three in a row since losing three in a row, although the potential absence of Jerami Grant is a blow.
He missed out this past weekend and Grant has been considered a 'salary dump' that the Trail Blazers may be looking to trade away now that the market is beginning to heat up. The veteran could make a big impact with a contender, but for now the Portland Trail Blazers have to focus on keeping the positive momentum going against one of the top teams in the NBA.
While Portland have been comfortable on the Offensive side of the court, the Detroit Pistons have been very proud of the early intensity shown when Defending. In recent games they have held teams to below 43% from the field and the Pistons will certainly feel they can get out and challenge the three point shooting, which is a huge part of the recent successes that Portland have had.
It will be the battling on the boards where the Pistons feel they can have a big edge in the contest, while they are shooting the ball efficiently as the wins have piled up.
In recent seasons, the NBA has become a make or miss League as far as the three point shooting goes and that has been the key to success or failure. However, the Pistons have been very balanced on the Offensive side of the court and they have certainly seen that keep opponents a little out of sync, which is where they can back up the home regular season win over this opponent.
That game ended in a 6 point win over Detroit earlier this month, but the potential absence of Jerami Grant may see them pull a little clearer in this contest.
Prediction
Lay the points with the road favourite and current Eastern Conference leader.
The Pick :
Portland Trail Blazers 108-117 Detroit Pistons
