Jazz vs Pistons Picks and Prediction – 12/20/2024

The Thursday NBA schedule will tip off with a matchup between the Utah Jazz and the Detroit Pistons from Little Caesars Arena. For other NBA action see our NBA Predictions. The Jazz (5-20) are looking to snap a three-game losing streak and own the second worst record in the Western Conference. On Monday, Utah had no answer for LA G James Harden (41 pts) during an ugly 144-107 road loss. 

Jordan Clarkson led six Utah players in double figures with 20 points (6-13 FG) in 23 minutes off the bench. Lauri Markkanen scored 17 points on 5-for-9 shooting and finished with a minus 25 rating. John Collins added 14 points and five rebounds for the Jazz, who allowed the Clippers to shoot a scorching 60 percent from the field. 

The Detroit Pistons are two games below .500 at home and trail two teams by a game for eighth place in the Eastern Conference standings. The Pistons (11-16) rank 19th in the league in defensive efficiency and are giving up 113.8 points per contest. On Monday, Detroit blew a 16-point lead entering the fourth quarter and managed to escape with a 125-124 overtime victory versus visiting Miami. 

Detroit G Malik Beasley knocked down 7-for-13 from the three-point line and finished with a team-high 28 points. Former number one overall draft pick Cade Cunningham contributed 20 points, 18 assists, and 11 rebounds. Ausar Thompson added 19 points and nine rebounds for the Pistons. 

Detroit G Jaden Ivey (knee) was scratched from Monday’s victory and is listed as day-to-day. These two teams rank in the bottom third of the league in offensive efficiency, so the under is worth a look. The Pistons are the better defensive team and will cover at home. Final Score Prediction, Detroit Pistons win 117-107.