The Detroit Pistons, who finished 44–38 last season and earned their first playoff win since 2008, visit the Chicago Bulls, who went 39–43 and lost in the Play-In Tournament, to open the 2025–26 NBA season at the United Center in Chicago. The opening tipoff is at 8:00 p.m. ET on CHSN. Detroit looks to continue its rise in the Eastern Conference, while Chicago begins a new chapter built around its young and talented core. Take it to the hoop and score with our NBA free picks
Detroit Pistons Preview
A year after tripling their win total, the Pistons enter the season with higher expectations. Cade Cunningham emerged as an All-Star in 2024–25, leading Detroit’s turnaround with his balance of scoring and playmaking. The Pistons added more depth this offseason, signing Caris LeVert and Duncan Robinson to strengthen the perimeter while re-signing Paul Reed to add depth to the frontcourt.
Detroit’s success last season came from improved defense and better late-game control. The team hopes to take another step once Jaden Ivey returns from knee surgery. Before his injury, Ivey averaged 17.6 points on 40.9% from three and gave Detroit a much-needed secondary playmaker next to Cunningham. With a young core that includes Ausar Thompson and Jalen Duren, plus veterans like LeVert and Robinson, the Pistons look ready to compete in a crowded Eastern Conference playoff race.
Chicago Bulls Preview
Chicago enters this season focused on development and consistency after a 39–43 record and a third straight Play-In defeat. The Bulls moved on from the Zach LaVine era last year and turned the offense over to Coby White, Josh Giddey, and Matas Buzelis. White closed the season on a scoring surge, averaging over 20 points per game and giving Chicago a dynamic perimeter threat.
Coach Billy Donovan, fresh off his Hall of Fame induction, has a young but intriguing roster. Nikola Vučević remains a reliable interior scorer and rebounder, while Ayo Dosunmu and newcomer Isaac Okoro provide much-needed defense. The Bulls re-signed Giddey and Tre Jones to shore up the backcourt, and top draft pick Noa Essengue joins Buzelis as part of the team’s future frontcourt. If Chicago finds a balance between its veterans and rising stars, it could surprise teams this season.
Detroit Pistons vs. Chicago Bulls Prediction
Detroit’s experience and continuity from last season should show in the opener. Cunningham’s command of the offense and the Pistons’ depth off the bench give them an advantage over Chicago’s young core of players. Expect the Pistons to control the pace and use their size advantage to earn a road win. Final Score Prediction: Detroit Pistons win and cover ATS 116-109.
Best Picks
- Detroit Pistons -2.5
- Chicago Bulls Over Team Points
- Detroit Pistons Cade Cunningham Over 24.5 Points
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