This betting preview will focus on the match between the improved Detroit Pistons and playoffs chasing Minnesota Timberwolves. The match will take place at Little Caesars Arena and it will mark the 2nd H2H match between the two teams this season.

Detroit Pistons have climbed to the 6th spot in the East after what looked like a disappointing season at the end of December, the start of January when they were holding a 4-11 record. But something clicked in the team which resulted in a 9-2 run in their last 11 matches. Looking at Pistons recent 5 matches, they have only lost to San Antonio Spurs, while they managed to defeat Miami heat (96:119), Indiana Pacers (113:109), Cleveland Cavaliers (93:129) and Toronto Raptors on Sunday (112:107)(OT). If you wonder where and what clicked in the team the answer is simple. It's their offence. Pistons started playing their matches with much more pace, which ultimately resulted in good performances. Much of the credit goes to the improved Jackson and Smith. Well to be fair, their whole bench has been a huge asset to the team. Morale is high and hopes for Pistons to continue performing is even higher, however, the season is not yet over and they should not put their foot off the gas just yet

On the other side, we have got Minnesota Timberwolves, who sit at the 10th spot in the West with 30-34 record and a 2-3 record in their last 5 matches played. The hopes of finishing in the playoffs are still very much alive, but being 5 games behind San Antonio Spurs, Minnesota needs to cook up a plan on how to turn their poor performances into something better. After what looked a promising run of 4 wins in 5 matches, Timberwolves lost 3 in a row against Atlanta Hawks (131:123), Indiana Pacers (122:115) and Washington Wizards (135:121). Nonetheless, they managed to defeat Oklahoma City Thunder on Wednesday night (131:120) which should give them a morale boost prior to the hard matchup ahead of them.

While Pistons have a strong starters as well as the bench, Timberwolves lack in that department. The only player Minnesota can rely on is their All-Star centre Towns who has finished the last match with impressive 41 points, 1 assist and 14 rebounds. While Timberwolves can be potent in the attack, the defence is still lacking quality. As it stands now, they are the 2nd most efficient offensive team in the last 3 matches, but sit at the bottom of defence efficiency rankings looking solely at their last 3 matches.

Minnesota Timberwolves will remain without Covington and Deng is doubtful. Detroit Pistons, on the other hand, have got Zaza listed as doubtful.

Both teams have proven their worth in the offensive end of the court, however, when it comes to defending the basket, neither have been too impressive. As mentioned Timberwolves are the worst defensive team in the league and I do not believe Pistons will have an answer ready for Towns, who is coming into this match after 2 impressive performances against Washington and Oklahoma City. Bookmakers favour the home side to win, which is fair, but I expect this one to finish in high numbers. I would be surprised if this match doesn't end with well over 220 points, which is why we will go for a prediction of over 224.5.

Prediction: Over 224.00 points