The travel to Detroit on for an important Eastern Conference game against the Pistons. lead the conference at 43-14, while Cleveland is fourth at 37-23.
This game matters for both sides. Detroit is trying to hold its position at the top. Cleveland is trying to stay close to the top group. Injuries could play a major role in how this game unfolds at Little Caesars Arena.
Cleveland Cavaliers dealing with multiple injuries vs Detroit Pistons (February 27, 2026)
Cleveland Cavaliers will be without Donovan Mitchell due to a right groin strain. Max Strus is also out with a left foot Jones fracture. The injury list could grow depending on game-time decisions.
James Harden (right thumb fracture), Dennis Schröder (right ankle sprain), Keon Ellis (left index finger fracture), and Dean Wade (right ankle sprain) are all listed as questionable. That leaves Cleveland with limited options, especially in the backcourt.
Detroit does not have the same issues. Bobi Klintman is questionable with an adductor strain but has not played a big role this season. Cade Cunningham and Jalen Duren are both expected to play.
Cleveland Cavaliers vs Detroit Pistons Full team rosters (February 27, 2026)
Cleveland Cavaliers: Jarrett Allen, Evan Mobley, James Harden, Dennis Schröder, Donovan Mitchell (out), Max Strus (out), Dean Wade (questionable), Keon Ellis (questionable), Larry Nance Jr.,
Craig Porter Jr. , Tyrese Proctor, Sam Merrill, Thomas Bryant, Darius Brown II, Riley Minix, Nae’Qwan Tomlin, Jaylon Tyson, Tristan Enaruna.
Detroit Pistons: Cade Cunningham, Jalen Duren, Ausar Thompson, Isaiah Stewart, Tobias Harris, Duncan Robinson, Ron Holland, Kevin Huerter, Javonte Green, Daniss Jenkins, Caris LeVert, Paul Reed, Marcus Sasser, Chaz Lanier, Bobi Klintman (questionable), Dario Šarić, Tolu Smith, Wendell Moore (two-way).
Cleveland Cavaliers vs Detroit Pistons Season series and head-to-head record
Detroit leads the all-time series 134-109 across 243 regular-season games. The teams have split two games this season. Detroit won 116-95 on October 27, 2025. Cleveland won 114-110 on January 4, 2026.
Detroit has been strong at home this season, which gives them an edge going into this game.
Cleveland Cavaliers vs Detroit Pistons Team stats comparison
Stat (Per Game, Rank) Cavaliers Pistons
Record 37-23 (4th East) 43-14 (1st East)
Points Scored 119.5 (10th) 117.4 (8th)
Points Allowed 115.1 (14th) ~109.5 (+7.9 margin, 2nd)
Rebounds 44.7 (8th) Strong ORB focus
Assists 28.4 (8th) 25.8+ in samples
FG% / 3PT% 47.7% / 35.8% 45.0% / 34.8%
Cleveland scores well and relies on its frontcourt for inside points. Detroit defends better, rebounds well, and looks to run in transition. Those areas could matter more with Cleveland missing players.
Cleveland Cavaliers vs Detroit Pistons Players to watch (February 27, 2026)
Cade Cunningham leads Detroit with 20.7 points and 9.0 assists per game. Jalen Duren adds 15.1 points and 8.5 rebounds.
Evan Mobley will have a bigger role for Cleveland without Mitchell. Jarrett Allen will need to control the paint and help on the boards.
Cleveland Cavaliers vs Detroit Pistons Game outlook (February 27, 2026)
Detroit comes into this game with fewer injuries and a more stable rotation. Cleveland may struggle if its questionable players are limited or unavailable.
The Pistons have the advantage at home. Their depth and defense could decide the game.
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