The Detroit Pistons enter Friday night’s NBA Cup group stage matchup as the clear betting favorite against the host Brooklyn Nets. The game will take place at Barclays Center, tipping off at 7:30 p.m.
Detroit remains recognized for challenging the New York Knicks in a key playoff series last year. The Pistons are currently on a four-game winning streak, highlighted by Monday’s road victory over the Memphis Grizzlies.
However, early NBA Cup games have produced unpredictable results. Cleveland and Indiana, for instance, both hold 0–1 records in East Group A. This volatility makes even strong teams hesitant to underestimate opponents.
Brooklyn, meanwhile, recorded its first win of the 2025–26 season on Wednesday, beating the Indiana Pacers 112–103 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Despite sharing a 1–7 record with the Pacers, the Nets showed improved defense in that outing.
“Could Brooklyn's maiden win coming in, plus the weird circumstances of a tournament tilt, make the Nets into a pick?”
The data and odds referenced were current as of November 7, 2025, but may have changed since publication.
The Pistons seek to extend their momentum against a newly confident Nets squad, though tournament unpredictability leaves bettors cautious about clear favorites.