Toronto Raptors (12-18) vs. Detroit Pistons (2-28)
Toronto Raptors vs. Detroit Pistons December 30, 2023 – An engaging basketball contest that showcases the disparate fortunes of its participants will pit Toronto Raptors against underperforming Detroit Pistons this Saturday at Little Caesars Arena in Toronto. Both teams should put forth maximum effort, creating an eventful and high-stakes basketball event sure to entertain and engage NBA daily picks and predictions fans! As it unfolds at Little Caesars Arena both sides should exert all efforts necessary for an unforgettable basketball contest!
Toronto Raptors vs. Detroit Pistons December 30, 2023 Game Info
| When: | Saturday, December 30, 2023, at 6:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Little Caesars Arena |
| TV: | BSDET |
| Stream: | NBA League Pass |
Pascal Siakam ( PF) vs. Cade Cunningham (PG)
Pascal Siakam, Toronto Raptors’ dynamic power forward, is having an outstanding season, averaging 21.3 points, 6.7 rebounds, and 5 assists per game. His versatility on both ends of the court make him a key asset – but his 2.3 turnovers per game could provide Detroit Pistons an opening.
Cade Cunningham stands as an ally to the Pistons. He has been an impressive point guard, scoring 23 points per game with 7 assists while showing his scoring and playmaking prowess – yet his turnover rate of 3.9 could pose problems against Raptors’ defensive schemes.
This matchup pits Siakam’s two-way impact against Cunningham’s elite playmaking. If Siakam plays to his ability at both ends while Cunningham continues to create for others without turning it over, this could turn into an exciting shootout between the two stars.
Scoring Droughts Plaguing Toronto
Over their last five games, the Raptors are only scoring 105 points per 100 possessions – significantly lower than their season average of 113.8. A big reason for their offensive struggles is scoring droughts, where Toronto has gone 4-5 minutes without a made field goal on several occasions. These dry spells have allowed opponents to build insurmountable leads. For the Raptors to get back on track, they desperately need to find ways to generate offense for 48 minutes. Toronto is also leaving points on the board at the charity stripe. On the season, they are shooting just 73.8% on free throws – 25th in the NBA. In contrast, the Pistons convert 78.8% of their attempts. If the Raptors can knock down more freebies, it would give their sputtering offense a boost.
Examining Detroit’s Home/Road Shooting Discrepancy
The Pistons have been abysmal on the road this season, with just a 1-16 record away from Little Caesars Arena. Their three-point and free throw shooting percentages also drop significantly when playing away games. At home, Detroit shoots 35.1% on threes and 82.5% on free throws. On the road, those numbers plummet to 30.3% and 72.9% respectively. The Pistons will need to channel their home shooting form in this matchup to stay competitive. One area where Detroit excels regardless of venue is offensive rebounding. They pull down 11.3 offensive boards per game – 7th best in the NBA. This allows the Pistons to get extra shot opportunities even when the initial look doesn’t fall. Their offensive rebounding prowess helps make up for inconsistent shooting. Controlling the glass will be key if they want to knock off Toronto.
NBA Betting Odds: TBD Over/Under: TBD
The betting odds for this game are yet to be determined, but considering the teams’ standings and trends, they will likely favor the Raptors. Bettors should keep an eye on the spread and moneyline as they become available.
Toronto Raptors Betting Trends
Raptors are 1-4 in their last 5 games.
Toronto Raptors are 1-4 in their last 5 games against the spread.
Raptors are 4-7 in their road games against the spread.
The totals have gone OVER in 2 of Raptors’ last 5 games.
The totals have gone OVER in 8 of Raptors’ 17 last games at home.
Detroit Pistons Betting Trends
Pistons are 0-5 in their last 5 games.
Detroit Pistons are 2-3 in their last 5 games against the spread.
Pistons are 6-9 in their road games against the spread.
The totals have gone OVER in 4 of Pistons’ last 5 games.
The totals have gone OVER in 8 of Pistons’ 15 last games at home.
Toronto Raptors vs. Detroit Pistons Betting Picks
Considering the statistics and trends, the Raptors seem like the safer bet. Their more balanced team play and superior record give them an edge. However, the Pistons’ tendency for high-scoring games, especially with Cunningham’s offensive talents, should not be underestimated. Bettors might find value in exploring over/under bets, given both teams’ recent trends.
Betting websites and enthusiasts will closely watch the spread and moneyline as the game approaches. The Raptors, despite their struggles, have the depth and talent to overcome the Pistons, especially if Siakam performs to his potential. However, the Pistons, playing at home, might just find that extra motivation to upset the odds.
Receiving Yards Prop: Raptors 115, Pistons 108.
