Preview: Surging Pistons Visit Struggling Trail Blazers PORTLAND, Ore. (Interstat) — The Detroit Pistons, owners of the NBA’s second-best record, begin a challenging West Coast trip against the Portland Trail Blazers on Monday night at Moda Center. The Pistons (21-6) arrive with momentum, having won eight of their last 10 games. Their most recent outing was a narrow 116-114 road loss to the Dallas Mavericks on Thursday, snapping a four-game win streak. Detroit previously handled Portland 122-116 at home on Dec. 5. All-Star guard Cade Cunningham powers Detroit’s elite start. He is averaging 27.4 points, 7.1 rebounds and 8.6 assists over his last 10 games, including a 29-point, nine-assist performance in the earlier win over Portland. In the loss to Dallas, he nearly posted a triple-double with 29 points, 10 rebounds and nine assists. The Trail Blazers (11-16) have been inconsistent but are coming off a thrilling 134-133 overtime victory against the Sacramento Kings on Thursday. Forward Deni Avdija led the way with 35 points, continuing a stellar individual season. Avdija, who scored 35 against Detroit earlier this month, is averaging 27.7 points, 8.2 rebounds and 7.7 assists over his last 10 contests. Portland will need another huge night from Avdija and improved defense to counter a balanced Pistons attack. Center Jalen Duren, who had 17 points and 13 rebounds against Dallas, provides a major interior presence. The matchup features a stark contrast in trajectories. The Pistons, with championship aspirations, look to establish dominance on the road, while the Trail Blazers seek a statement win to climb back toward .500. Cunningham’s orchestration of the offense against Avdija’s all-around production will be the central duel. Following this game, Detroit continues its trip in Sacramento on Tuesday. Portland hosts the Orlando Magic on Tuesday.