Preview: NBA’s Top Team Visits Struggling Jazz on Friday SALT LAKE CITY (Interstat) — The league-leading Detroit Pistons, riding an eight-game winning streak, face a Utah Jazz team mired in a five-game skid when the teams meet Friday at Delta Center. The Pistons (24-6) arrive as the NBA’s hottest team, having won 12 of their last 13 games. Their most recent victory was a 136-127 road win over the Sacramento Kings on Tuesday. All-Star guard Cade Cunningham orchestrated that win with 23 points and 14 assists, continuing a dominant stretch. Over his last 10 games, Cunningham is averaging 22.2 points, 7.3 rebounds and 9.5 assists, posting a triple-double against Charlotte on Dec. 20. In contrast, the Jazz (10-19) have lost nine of their last 11. They are coming off a 137-128 home loss to Memphis on Tuesday, despite a 25-point, 13-rebound effort from rookie forward Kyle Filipowski. The 7-footer has shown flashes, including a 25-point, 9-rebound performance in a win over Dallas on Dec. 15, but Utah’s defense has been a persistent issue, allowing an average of 128.2 points during its current losing streak. The teams met earlier this season on Nov. 5 in Detroit, with the Pistons winning 114-103. Cunningham had 19 points and 11 assists in that contest. For Detroit, balance has been key. Alongside Cunningham, center Jalen Duren is coming off a 23-point, 13-rebound game against Sacramento, and veteran forward Tobias Harris added 24 points. The Pistons lead the NBA in offensive rating and are top-five in assists per game. Utah will need a significant defensive improvement to slow Detroit’s rhythm. The Jazz rank near the bottom of the league in defensive efficiency and will be challenged by Cunningham’s pick-and-roll mastery. Filipowski and guard Keyonte George, who scored 24 points against Memphis, must provide efficient offense to keep pace. This game opens a two-game road trip for Detroit before a marquee Sunday matchup at the Los Angeles Clippers. Utah hosts Boston on Tuesday before embarking on a six-game road trip. Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m. MST Friday.