Why the Pistons at -3.5 is the play as the NBA Playoffs second round gets underway in Detroit The NBA Playoffs’ second round features a matchup between the Cavaliers and Pistons, with a betting focus on Detroit as slight favorites. The Cavaliers had a mixed first round, winning all home games but losing on the road, while the Pistons overcame a 3-1 deficit against the Magic. Betting advice leans towards the Pistons covering the -3.5 spread due to Cleveland’s struggles away from home.

• The NBA Playoffs’ second round has begun, with the Cavaliers facing the Pistons.
• The Cavaliers’ first-round performance was characterized by winning home games and losing road games.
• The Pistons rallied from a 3-1 deficit in the first round to force and win a Game 7.
• The Pistons’ coach, who was fired by Cleveland previously, is seen as a potential X-factor.
• Key player matchups include Mitchell vs. Cunningham and Allen/Mobley vs. Duren.
• The Pistons are slight favorites in a series expected to be close, with regular-season games often decided by four or fewer points.
• The betting pick is Pistons -3.5, citing the Cavaliers’ poor road performance in the playoffs.