The Cleveland Cavaliers are set to tip off their second-round series against the Detroit Pistons, and if history is any guide, Game 1 could set the tone for everything to come. Under Donovan Mitchell, the Cavs have never lost a series when winning the opening game—a stat that adds extra weight to Tuesday's matchup at Little Caesars Arena.

Both teams are coming off grueling seven-game first-round battles, leaving little time to rest or prepare. The Cavs edged past their opponent in a nail-biting Game 7, while the Pistons survived a similar scare. With just one day to pivot, execution and star power will likely decide the outcome.

During the regular season, these two teams split their four meetings, making this series even more unpredictable. The most recent matchup came in March, when the Cavs pulled out a 113-109 win behind a standout performance from Jaylon Tyson.

For the Cavs, the expected starting lineup features James Harden, Donovan Mitchell, Dean Wade, Evan Mobley, and Jarrett Allen. The Pistons will counter with Cade Cunningham, Duncan Robinson, Ausar Thompson, Tobias Harris, and Jalen Duren. Detroit's Kevin Huerter is listed as questionable with an abductor strain, which could impact their rotation.

With stakes this high and preparation time minimal, expect a hard-fought battle where every possession matters. The team that executes better—and leans on its stars—will likely take control of the series from the start.