The Detroit Pistons are set to welcome the New Orleans Pelicans in a cross-conference clash on Thursday, March 26. The Pistons sit atop the Eastern Conference with a strong 51-19 record, while the New Orleans Pelicans are near the bottom of the Western Conference at 25-47. The Pistons have been one of the league’s most consistent teams and hold a solid home record. The Pelicans have struggled heavily on the road with a poor 9-25 record.
The Pistons are around -5.5 favorites with moneyline at -205 and a total near 224.5. These NBA odds tonight suggest that the Pistons are highly likely to record a win at home, and reflect the clear gap between the Eastern Conference leaders and a struggling team.
Here’s how we’re betting Pistons vs Pelicans tonight.
Best Bet: Pistons -5.5 (-106)
Book: Best price on FanDuel
Our best bet for Detroit Pistons vs New Orleans Pelicans is Pistons -5.5 (-106) against the spread.
Detroit ranks among the NBA’s elite in both offensive and defensive efficiency as well as a strong net rating. They dominate games well at home, and protect the spread against lesser opponents. On the other hand, New Orleans sits with one of the weaker offenses and defenses in the league.
The spread at Pistons -5.5 fits the hosts well considering their control of the game at home as well as better overall depth in this spot. Given the matchup, Detroit’s efficiency edge, and the current spread, we’re taking the Pistons to cover this number comfortably.
3-Leg SGP (Safer)
Combined odds: +695
We have built this same-game parlay around the Pistons to record a comfortable win at home. With Cade Cunningham currently out of action, players such as Jalen Duren, Jenkins and Harris are expected to take charge of their scoring.
These legs are correlated considering if they control the tempo of the game, they would be able to generate efficient scoring opportunities. Hence, this is our safer SGP option.
Here are the latest Pistons vs Pelicans odds from top sportsbooks. Shop around for the best NBA odds before locking in your bets.
| Team | Spread | Moneyline | Total |
| New Orleans Pelicans | +5.5 (-110) | +180 | O 225.5 (-110) |
| Detroit Pistons | -5.5 (-110) | -220 | U 225.5 (-110) |
Odds from FanDuel, updated on Thursday, March 26, 2026 at 1:23 am EDT. Lines may change throughout the day.
Given how prop-heavy NBA betting is, we’re also eyeing these player props for tonight’s Detroit Pistons vs New Orleans Pelicans game.
These props align with usage rates and matchup dynamics. Trey Murphy III and Zion Williamson are key Pelicans’ scorers and they would want to take their team’s offense in their hands and put up an efficient score against the stronger Pistons to keep themselves in the game. Apart from them, Duren is an efficient rebounder, who is expected to dominate the glass on Thursday as well.
Here are a few betting trends to keep in mind for Detroit Pistons vs New Orleans Pelicans.
Before betting this game, it’s important to check the NBA injury report as late scratches and minutes limits can swing spreads and totals in a hurry.
| Team | Player | Injury | Status |
| Detroit Pistons | Isaiah Stewart | Calf | Out |
| Detroit Pistons | Marcus Sasser | Hip | Out |
| Detroit Pistons | Cade Cunningham | Chest | Out |
| New Orleans Pelicans | Dejounte Murray | Rest | Questionable |
| New Orleans Pelicans | Trey Murphy III | Ankle | Questionable |
| New Orleans Pelicans | Bryce McGowens | Toe | Out |
In the NBA, late injury news and minutes restrictions have a huge impact on spreads and totals, so re-check the injury report and final inactives about an hour before tip-off.
The Detroit Pistons vs New Orleans Pelicans is scheduled to tip off at 7:00 pm EDT on March 26.
The Detroit Pistons vs New Orleans Pelicans will be played at Little Caesars Arena, Detroit, MI.
The Detroit Pistons vs New Orleans Pelicans will be available on FanDuel Sports Network. The live stream, on the other hand, will be accessible on Fubo and NBA League Pass.
| Detail | Information |
| Date | Thursday, March 26, 2026 |
| Time | 7:00 pm EDT |
| Venue | Little Caesars Arena, Detroit, MI |
| TV / Live Stream | FanDuel Sports Network, NBA League Pass, Fubo |
Garima is a sports writer with around two years of experience in Indian sports and a newfound interest in the NBA. Inspired by the leadership of cricketing legend MS Dhoni, she wishes to bring in newer perspectives to the NBA fanatics with her writing.
Read moreWe use cookies for ads and to improve your experience. By continuing on the site, you agree to our Privacy Policy. Read more about it
NBA