Preview: Struggling Nets Face Surging Pistons in Detroit DETROIT (Interstat) — A stark contrast in fortunes will be on display Sunday when the NBA-leading Detroit Pistons host the league-worst Brooklyn Nets at Little Caesars Arena. The Pistons (34-12) enter the matchup with the best record in basketball, having won eight of their last 10 games. Their most recent outing was a 114-96 road loss to the Phoenix Suns on Thursday, which snapped a three-game winning streak. Center Jalen Duren was a bright spot in the defeat, posting 23 points and 13 rebounds. Over his last 10 games, Duren has averaged 17.8 points and 10.5 rebounds, providing a consistent interior force for Detroit. Conversely, the Nets (12-34) are mired in a deep slump, having lost nine of their last 10 contests. They are coming off a narrow 107-103 loss to the Denver Nuggets on Thursday. The lone consistent highlight for Brooklyn has been the prolific scoring of forward Michael Porter, who erupted for 38 points and 10 rebounds in that defeat. Over his last five games, Porter is averaging 30.2 points, though the Nets have lost all five. The teams have met once this season, with the Pistons securing a decisive 125-107 victory in Brooklyn on Nov. 7, 2025. Sunday’s game presents a classic matchup of a powerhouse against a struggling squad seeking an upset. The Pistons will look to reassert their dominance at home behind a balanced attack led by Duren and guard Cade Cunningham, who scored 26 points in the loss to Phoenix. Brooklyn’s hopes will rest almost entirely on Porter’s ability to continue his high-scoring output and keep the game competitive. For the Nets, a date with the league’s top team offers a daunting challenge to reverse their season-long struggles. For the Pistons, it is an opportunity to maintain their position atop the standings before a tough upcoming stretch that includes games against Denver and New York. Tip-off is scheduled for 6 p.m. EST.