With the exception of the Golden State Warriors and their pursuit of 73 wins, no team has been under the microscope the way the Cleveland Cavaliers have been this year. Despite Kyrie Irving missing a significant portion of the season, the controversial firing of coach David Blatt, and a blowout loss to the Warriors, the LeBron James-led Cavaliers are still the favorites to make it out of the East.
The Pistons are back in the playoffs for the first time since 2009. They are led by big man Andre Drummond (16.2 points, 14.8 rebounds per game) and guard Reggie Jackson (18.8 ppg) both of whom had career seasons.
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The Cavaliers spent most of the season at the top of the East and finished with the No. 1 seed at 57-25. The Pistons held on to the No. 8 spot at 44-38.
Cavaliers vs. Pistons matchup to watch
Kyrie Irving vs. Reggie Jackson.
Jackson has been a go-to-player for the Pistons all season, while Irving hasn’t had to bare as much responsibility with James on his squad. Jackson will have to pick his spots and conserve his energy while chasing Irving, especially with his recent abdominal injury. Irving went for 28 points in his team’s lone win of the regular season series.
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Cavaliers vs. Pistons regular-season series
Pistons won 3-1: Pistons 104-99, Cavs 114-106, Pistons 96-88, Pistons 112-110
Cavaliers vs. Pistons schedule, TV info
All times p.m. Eastern
Game 1: Sunday, April 17 at Cleveland, 3 (ABC)
Game 2: Wednesday, April 20 at Cleveland, 8 (TNT)
Game 3: Friday, April 22 at Detroit, 7 (ESPN)
Game 4: Sunday, April 24 at Detroit, 8 (TNT)
Game 5: Tuesday, April 26 at Cleveland (TBD if necessary)
Game 6: Thursday, April 28 at Detroit (TBD if necessary)
Game 7: Saturday, April 30 at Cleveland (TNT if necessary)
Cavaliers vs. Pistons prediction
The Pistons took the regular season series — but don’t get it twisted — the Cavs are still the favorites. The first game was before Irving’s return from injury and Cleveland rested James in the season finale.
Pistons in five.