The Detroit Pistons released their second-half schedule today. At this point, it is obvious Detroit isn’t contending. The team is last in the Eastern Conference. However, there are plenty of good matchups to test the young squad and give us a glimpse of the future in the Motor City.

Brooklyn Nets (March 13, March 26)

The Detroit Pistons shocked the KD-less Nets with an 11-point win back in January. Jerami Grant and Co. will face them twice in March. Brooklyn will be back at full staff for these matchups. The highlight of this game will be the KD-Jerami battle. But, look out for Dennis Smith Jr. against Kyrie Irving. Detroit will have the rebounding advantage – as many teams do – but Brooklyn is a scary-good team. This will become even worse if the Nets scoop up Andre Drummond or another big man at the deadline. 

Los Angeles Clippers (April 11, April 14)

The Clippers are the most well-rounded team in the league. They are top-5 in offense and defense. Each matchup will challenge the Detroit Pistons. Patrick Beverley is pesky and unceasing on D. Kawhi Leonard and Paul George are unstoppable offensively. Nic Batum and Serge Ibaka are lanky defensive threats. The Clips have bench depth that will present its own problem for Detroit’s reserves. 

Detroit Pistons v Denver Nuggets (April 6, May 14) 

Detroit will have the unique challenge of planning against an elite scoring center. The team is one-of-a-kind in the league. Despite Denver’s lack of success, they will be a great experience for the Pistons. Wal-Mart Jokic (aka Mason Plumlee) will face off against Actual Jokic. Michael Porter Jr. will go toe-to-toe with former bench buddy Jerami Grant. Expect massive showings from Grant and Plumlee in these games.