Detroit Pistons vs Phoenix-suns Picks and Predictions January 18th 2025

Suns Ready to Showcase New Addition Against Pistons

The Phoenix Suns are set to unveil their latest acquisition, Nick Richards, as they visit the Detroit Pistons on Saturday afternoon. With the Suns looking to maintain momentum on their five-game road trip and the Pistons eager to rebound after a disappointing loss, this matchup promises to be a compelling clash of styles and strategies.

Suns: Introducing Nick Richards

Phoenix’s midseason trade with the Charlotte Hornets brought in center Nick Richards, whose physical presence and rim protection are expected to address the Suns’ defensive inconsistencies. Richards, averaging 8.9 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 1.2 blocks in 21 games this season, brings size and athleticism that head coach Mike Budenholzer believes will bolster the team’s interior defense and rebounding efforts.

“We’re excited about adding Nick and what he can bring to our team,” Budenholzer said. “Defensively around the rim, on the boards, and setting screens—his size and athleticism can be impactful.”

Kevin Durant echoed this sentiment, emphasizing Richards’ potential to transform the team’s presence in the paint. “He’s a big body that can wreak havoc down there and cause some problems with rim protection,” Durant said. “We’re looking forward to seeing how he fits in and leads us in those areas.”

The Suns enter the game on a strong note, winning four of their last five outings, including a 130-123 victory over the Washington Wizards. However, defensive lapses, particularly in the fourth quarter, remain a concern. Durant stressed the importance of improved team defense, noting, “We have to finish games better as a unit.”

Pistons: Bouncing Back from a Rare Loss

The Detroit Pistons are aiming to recover from a 111-100 home loss to the Indiana Pacers, a rare stumble after winning 10 of their previous 12 games. Head coach J.B. Bickerstaff took responsibility for the defeat, but center Jalen Duren insisted the team’s execution, not the game plan, was to blame.

“We’ll be better,” Duren said. “We’re not going to let this snowball. It’s a tough loss, but we have Phoenix coming in, so we’ll get back to it.”

Cade Cunningham, Detroit’s star guard and All-Star hopeful, struggled against Indiana with 20 points on 7-for-21 shooting, along with seven turnovers. Despite the off night, Cunningham has been the Pistons’ offensive engine, averaging 32 points in four of his previous six games. Bickerstaff lauded Cunningham’s ability to elevate those around him.

“Cade is having a great season, but he’s also uplifting others around him to have great seasons,” Bickerstaff said. “He’s been the glue that’s helped this team get better.”

Key Matchups

Nick Richards vs. Jalen Duren: The battle of the big men will be pivotal as Richards looks to make an immediate impact for the Suns while Duren anchors Detroit’s interior game.

Cade Cunningham vs. Suns Defense: Cunningham’s playmaking and scoring will test Phoenix’s ability to limit turnovers and defensive breakdowns.

Kevin Durant’s Leadership: Durant’s ability to dominate offensively while facilitating team cohesion will be critical, particularly as Richards integrates into the lineup.

Dive into the Latest NBA Scoring Leader Race with Updated Odds and Expert Analysis

What’s at Stake

For the Suns, this game represents an opportunity to solidify their revamped identity and push forward in the Western Conference standings. For the Pistons, it’s a chance to prove their resilience and continue their ascent after a rare misstep.

Will Phoenix’s new-look roster shine, or will Detroit’s home-court advantage and youthful energy carry the day? Fans can expect an intense, high-stakes battle when the Suns and Pistons face off.