Pistons vs Wizards NBA Preseason Pick: Can Detroit Snap Two-Game Skid? (Oct 16)

Published Oct 15, 8:40pm ET by

James Tillman - Betting Preview Analyst and Sports Writer

Last updated Oct 15, 8:40pm ET

Pick status
The Pistons hope to improve to 2-2 in preseason play when they host the Wizards on Thursday night.

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Updated Oct 15, 8:40pm ET

  • The Detroit Pistons fell to 1-2 following a double-digit loss at the hands of the Cleveland Cavaliers.
  • Meanwhile, the Wizards won their second preseason game, defeating the New York Knicks 120-103.
  • The last regular-season meeting between these teams took place on Mar. 13, with the Wizards claiming a 129-125 victory.

One of the games on Thursday's NBA preseason slate features the Detroit Pistons hosting the Washington Wizards. Who has the edge in our Pistons vs Wizards pick?

Detroit Pistons vs. Washington Wizards Overview Watch On: FDSDET

DATE & TIME

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 16, 2025 @ 7:00 PM ET
Detroit Pistons
Little Caesars Arena
Detroit, MI
Washington Wizards

Pistons Aim To Close Out Preseason With A Win

Detroit fell behind early in this Central Division matchup, trailing 42-31 after the first quarter. While the Pistons did get within 62-57 at the break, Cleveland outscored the road team by a 56-43 margin en route to an easy 18-point victory.

Tobias Harris led the way with 19 points and five rebounds. Daniss Jenkins also put up 19 points and handed out six assists on 5-for-6 shooting overall and 3-for-4 from 3-point range.

Washington Coming Off A Double-Digit Victory Against New York

As it turned out, this game quickly got out of hand. The Wizards led 36-26 after the first 12 minutes and increased their advantage to 75-52 at intermission.

Although the second half was somewhat more competitive, Washington eventually coasted to a 120-103 victory.

Washington's balanced attack placed five players in double figures. Marvin Bagley III posted a double-double that consisted of 18 points and 11 rebounds, along with three assists and two steals. Will Riley was the standout player for the bench, contributing 17 points on 7-of-11 shooting from the field.

Pistons vs Wizards NBA Pick

Here's a look at what you need to know for both teams ahead of this contest.

  • The Pistons are 1-4 straight-up (SU) in their last five games.
  • Detroit is also 1-4 ATS in its previous five outings.
  • The Wizards are 1-4 in their last five contests.
  • Washington has covered the spread twice in its previous five matchups.

In a game that could go in either direction, look for Washington to hand the Pistons their third straight loss.

Pick
Washington Wizards
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