Boston Celtics vs Detroit Pistons Picks and Predictions December 12th 2024

Celtics Host Pistons: A Battle to Maintain Momentum

The Boston Celtics aim to prevent their first back-to-back losses of the season as they prepare to host the Detroit Pistons on Thursday. After a challenging loss to the Memphis Grizzlies on Saturday, the Celtics look to bounce back with renewed energy and focus.

Celtics Seek Redemption After Tough Loss

The Celtics’ recent 127-121 loss to the Grizzlies at home was a test of endurance and resilience. Boston rallied from a 14-point second-half deficit to claim a brief fourth-quarter lead but faltered in the final minutes.

“Effort was good,” said head coach Joe Mazzulla. “You’re down 14, take the lead. In the fourth quarter, I felt like we didn’t really have a rhythm to the game, but we were able to take the lead. I thought we kind of just ran out of gas here towards the end.”

This marked Boston’s fifth game in just seven nights, a grueling schedule that seemed to take a toll on the players. The team managed only 18 successful three-pointers out of 60 attempts—a glaring indicator of fatigue.

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Jaylen Brown acknowledged the challenges but remained optimistic. “These are the games you’ve just gotta fight through it. Tough schedule, but we don’t make any excuses. We know what the journey is about and we’re not skipping any steps. I thought we fought as a team. We didn’t let the rope go. We didn’t give up.”

Injury Concerns Loom for Boston

Boston is grappling with injuries as they prepare for Thursday’s game. Key reserve Sam Hauser exited Saturday’s match due to right adductor tightness. While Coach Mazzulla expressed optimism postgame, Hauser remains doubtful for the Pistons matchup.

Adding to the uncertainty, All-Star Jayson Tatum (right patella tendinopathy), Jaden Springer (non-COVID illness), and Jordan Walsh (rib contusion) are all listed as questionable.

Pistons Riding High After Victory Over Knicks

On the other side of the court, the Pistons come in with momentum following a 120-111 win against the New York Knicks. Cade Cunningham led the charge with a stellar triple-double performance, amassing 29 points, 15 assists, and 10 rebounds. Cunningham has been a consistent force for Detroit this season, averaging 23.9 points, 9.4 assists, and 7.3 rebounds per game.

“I try to do whatever it takes to help my team win, and my teammates have made me look great this year,” Cunningham shared. “I’m just trying to help my team win and we’ll see what happens with it.”

Malik Beasley’s hot hand from beyond the arc also played a pivotal role, as he sank seven three-pointers and scored 23 points.

Detroit coach J.B. Bickerstaff highlighted the team’s ongoing growth. “The hardest thing to do in the NBA is find consistency, whether as an individual or as a team. But it’s the habits we do every single day, and hopefully, (the victory over New York) is another game that’s a big step for us.”

A Season Series in the Making

Thursday’s game marks the third meeting between the Celtics and Pistons this season. Boston emerged victorious in the previous two matchups, securing a 124-118 win in Detroit on Oct. 26 and a 130-120 win at home on Dec. 4. Despite the losses, Cunningham has shone brightly, including a near triple-double in their last clash.

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Bickerstaff is confident in Cunningham’s potential. “I don’t say this lightly by any means, but being around (Cunningham) and spending time with him—he’s the guy. He has the ability to be an elite guy on a basketball team because of all the things he’s capable of doing. He can manipulate the game, he can score, he can rebound, and he makes his teammates better.”

What’s at Stake?

As the Celtics fight to maintain their rhythm and avoid consecutive losses, the Pistons aim to build on their recent victory and demonstrate consistency. With star players on both sides, this matchup promises to deliver high-energy basketball and plenty of drama.