Game 5 arrives in Detroit with availability concerns taking center stage. The Pistons enter a pivotal home matchup monitoring several rotation pieces. At the same time, the Cavaliers head into the game fully healthy and looking to push the series lead for the first time.
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This is bigger than winning a playoff series. The outcome of this tie will make-or-break the future of these franchises. With the biggest game of the series set for tonight, let’s preview the possible injury concerns for the clash.
Detroit Pistons vs Cleveland Cavaliers Game 5: injury report
Detroit Pistons
Detroit enters Game 5 already dealing with rotation uncertainty, with Kevin Huerter (left abductor strain, trending in the right direction) and Duncan Robinson (low back soreness, 43.6% from beyond the arc in the playoffs) both listed as questionable, potentially thinning Detroit’s perimeter options.
Caris LeVert is also questionable with a right heel contusion, compounding the Pistons’ depth issues as they head into a crucial home matchup.
Cleveland Cavaliers
Kenny Atkinson can have a peaceful sleep the night before Game 5. The Cleveland Cavaliers’ stock is on the rise after claiming back-to-back wins at home. Not only have Donovan Mitchell and James Harden looked reinvigorated, but the Cavs have zero injury concerns heading into the pivotal game on the road.
Imago
May 7, 2026; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Cleveland Cavaliers guard James Harden (1) dribbles defended by Detroit Pistons guard Cade Cunningham (2) in the first half during game two of the second round of the 2026 NBA Playoffs at Little Caesars Arena. Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-Imagn Images
Detroit Pistons vs Cleveland Cavaliers Game 5: Predicted starting lineup
| Detroit Pistons | Cleveland Cavaliers |
| Cade Cunningham | James Harden |
| Duncan Robinson* | Donovan Mitchell |
| Ausar Thompson | Max Strus |
| Tobias Harris | Evan Mobley |
| Jalen Duren | Jarrett Allen |
Detroit Pistons vs Cleveland Cavaliers Game 5: Odds
Despite the possible toll injuries could have on the Pistons, they are seen as small favorites for Game 5. The moneyline is set at -166, while the Cavaliers are at +1140. Considering the home-road scenario, these odds are close. There’s a pattern in this series in which the Pistons’ status as favorites remains unchanged. Neither team has won a game on the road yet. But the Cavaliers have a great chance to break their curse and claim their first road win in this postseason.
Detroit Pistons vs Cleveland Cavaliers Game 5: Where to watch
Date: Wednesday, May 13, 2026
Location: Little Caesars Arena, Detroit, Michigan
Time: 8:00 P.M. E.T.
TV: ESPN
Streaming: ESPN app