This Pro Pick was released to clients on January 21, 2026 at 12:29PM ET.
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Detroit at New Orleans

January 21, 2026
img8:00 PM Eastern

Yes, Detroit has the best record in the Eastern Conference at 31-10 and is hot with six wins in the last seven games. Not so fast, though, if you think the Pistons are going to cover this big a number. The spot isn't good for Detroit, nor is the history. The Pistons just defeated their closest Eastern Conference challenger, the Celtics, at home this past Sunday on national television, 104-103. Not only is this a letdown spot for Detroit facing the 10-35 Pelicans on the road, but the Pistons have a far more challenging game looming on Friday when they host the Rockets. New Orleans has a rest advantage, having last played on Saturday. Despite their awful record, the Pelicans have a winning point spread mark. The Pelicans are 8-2 ATS the past 10 times when taking eight or more points. The Pistons are 6-9 ATS as a road favorite. Take the Pelicans. 

2 units on New Orleans +11 (-105) (risk 2 to return 3.9)
Result:
WIN
FINAL
1
2
3
4
F
Detroit Pistons img
34
34
21
23
112
New Orleans Pelicans
30
32
22
20
104
consensus consensus
odds odds
 
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