1* Free Pick on Cavs -4½

Cleveland is in a massive hole down 0-2 and heads home for a true "do or die" Game 3 against the Pistons.

No team in NBA history has ever come back from a 3-0 deficit so expect maximum urgency from the Cavs right from the jump.

Returning to Rocket Arena is the exact reset this veteran core needs after two disappointing losses in Detroit.

The Pistons are riding an impressive five-game playoff winning streak but this is their first real road test of the series.

Young teams often see their shooting percentages dip and their turnover rates climb when the atmosphere shifts to a hostile playoff environment.

Detroit will also be without sharpshooter Kevin Huerter who remains out with an adductor strain.

His absence shrinks the floor and allows Cleveland’s defense to pack the paint and focus more attention on Cade Cunningham.

Donovan Mitchell and James Harden are playing through some bumps and bruises but both stars are confirmed in the starting lineup.

Harden struggled with his shot and ball control in Detroit but he usually finds his rhythm once he gets the home whistles and the comfort of his own court.

The market is showing respect to the home team here by making them a 4.5-point favorite despite being down in the series.

That line tells you the oddsmakers expect a massive response from a Cleveland squad that has been far better at home all season.

Cleveland’s length with Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley should finally start to wear down the Pistons’ interior scoring.

Desperation is a powerful motivator in the postseason and the Cavs have the veteran leadership to avoid the sweep.

Expect a much more physical defensive effort from Cleveland as they look to bully the younger Pistons on the glass.

I like the Cavs -4.5 (-105).

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