Suns vs Pistons: Clash of Titans Tonight

Right now, the basketball world is buzzing. The Suns vs Pistons showdown is heating up League Pass. Tonight’s game is a must-watch. Two powerhouse teams are set to collide.

The Phoenix Suns (24-16, 7th in Western Conference) are in Detroit for their second of a current six-game road trip for an interconference tilt with the Pistons (28-10, 1st in Eastern Conference) on Thursday evening (7 ET, League Pass). Here are three things to watch for in the Motor City.

Elite Defenses on Display

The Suns and Pistons are two of the best defenses in the NBA this season. Both units rank inside the top ten in defensive rating near the midway point of 2025-26. Phoenix (112.2, 6th) and Detroit (109.7, 2nd) each have several athletic, versatile ball-stoppers at nearly every position. Dillon Brooks and Ausar Thompson are standout players on the wings. As of January 14, the clubs are tied for first in steals per game at 10.4. They’re adept at capitalizing on turnovers, too, with the Suns’ 21.7 points off TOs good for second and the Pistons’ 21.6 right behind them in third.

Phoenix Heating Up

Tuesday’s 127-121 loss to the Miami Heat ended a three-game winning streak for the Suns. But they’ve played extremely well through 40 contests so far. They’re 10-4 over their last 14 outings, taking down the NBA-best Oklahoma City Thunder and New York Knicks (2nd in East) as signature wins during that stretch. Brooks has been sensational in his debut season in The Valley, posting career-high marks in scoring (21.3 points), field goals made (7.9) and attempted (17.3), and field goal percentage (45.7%) across 34 appearances. The veteran has stepped up his aggressiveness on offense with Jalen Green (hamstring) having suited up for just 30 combined minutes in ‘25-’26.

Cade Cunningham’s Climb

The first overall pick in 2021 has continued his ascension as one of the league’s most talented players in his fifth professional campaign. Cunningham is averaging career-best numbers in points (26.7), assists (9.7), steals (1.5), minutes (35.6) and plus-minus (7.7) on solid shooting splits of 46.5/34.0/83.8 while confidently guiding the Pistons to the top of the East. Even with Tobias Harris (hip), Jalen Duren (ankle) and Isaiah Stewart (illness) all missing time, Detroit hasn’t faltered much, thanks in large part to the steadying presence of their star guard. Cunningham is dealing with a wrist injury that’s forced him to miss the last two games, but over his previous four contests, the one-time All-Star posted averages of 28.5 points, 5.5 rebounds, 10.5 dimes, 1.8 steals and 1.3 blocks on 48.6/42.1/94.4 splits.

Pistons Injury Update: Cade Cunningham, Jalen Duren Likely Back vs Suns

Cade Cunningham and Jalen Duren are likely to return for the Pistons. This is a huge boost for Detroit. The Pistons’ defense will be stronger with them back. Their offense will also get a significant upgrade.

Pistons vs. Suns Preview: Surprising Suns Visit Detroit for Only Time This Season

The Suns visit Detroit for the only time this season. This is a crucial game for both teams. The Pistons are aiming to maintain their top spot. The Suns are looking to climb higher in the Western Conference.

For more background, check out the suns vs pistons Wikipedia page. Stay tuned for latest news updates.

Final Verdict

Tonight’s game is a must-watch. Both teams are strong defensively. The Suns are heating up, while the Pistons are getting key players back. Expect a tight, exciting matchup.