Preview: Cavaliers at Pistons DETROIT (Interstat) — A pivotal Central Division clash awaits Friday night at Little Caesars Arena as the Detroit Pistons host the Cleveland Cavaliers. The Pistons (42-14), boasting one of the NBA’s best records, look to maintain their dominance, while the Cavaliers (37-22) aim to close the gap in the standings and avenge a home loss to Detroit earlier this season. The matchup features a compelling battle in the paint between two of the league’s premier young centers. Cleveland’s Jarrett Allen enters on a tear, averaging a double-double over his last 10 games. He is coming off a 19-point, 10-rebound performance in a 109-94 win over New York on Tuesday. Allen posted a historic 40-point, 17-rebound, 5-assist, 4-block stat line in a win over Portland on Feb. 1. Detroit counters with Jalen Duren, who has recorded a double-double in six of his last eight appearances. Duren logged 25 points and 14 rebounds in Detroit’s most recent outing, a 114-103 loss to San Antonio on Monday. His consistency has been a cornerstone for the Pistons’ successful season. The season series is split 1-1. Detroit won the most recent meeting, 114-110, in Cleveland on Jan. 4. The Cavaliers captured the first matchup, 116-95, in Detroit on Oct. 27. Cleveland has won eight of its last 10 games, showcasing a potent offense that has scored 118 or more points in seven of those victories. Donovan Mitchell, who scored 23 points against the Knicks, provides the backcourt firepower alongside Allen’s interior presence. Despite Monday’s loss, Detroit has been formidable, winning seven of its last 10. The Pistons’ lineup, led by Cade Cunningham and supported by Duren and rookie Ronald Holland, presents a balanced attack. Friday’s result will set the tone for a quick rematch, as the teams are scheduled to meet again in Cleveland on Tuesday, March 3.