PREVIEW: The Detroit Pistons (38-13) bring their league-leading defensive intensity to Charlotte on Monday, ranked first in forcing turnovers and first in defending shots at the rim. Detroit has won 13 of their last 17 games and will look to maintain momentum after dismantling the Knicks 118-80 at home. However, the Pistons struggle with offensive efficiency near the basket, ranking 26th in that category, and their free throw shooting sits at an underwhelming 75.5%. With a commanding 16-7 road record, Detroit sits atop the Eastern Conference standings as a team built to dominate in hostile environments. Charlotte arrives riding a nine-game winning streak after edging the Hawks 126-119 on Saturday, proving they can compete with strong opponents. The Hornets rank third in free throw shooting at 81.7% and fifth in three-point frequency at 46.3%, creating multiple avenues to score. Yet Charlotte's defensive profile reveals a concerning weakness, ranking 28th in forcing turnovers and dead last at 29th in turnover creation. In their previous meeting this season, Detroit dominated Charlotte 112-86 in a performance that showcased the Pistons' suffocating defensive system.