The 76ers are basically a lottery team when Joel Embiid doesn't play and he will miss tonight's game with a back issue. Embiid has been utterly dominant over the past three games, becoming the first Sixer with at least 33 points and 10 rebounds in three straight since Wilt Chamberlain in 1967. Even with Embiid in the lineup, Philly only won by four in Motown on Saturday. The Pistons are 5-1 ATS in their past six as home dogs.

The Pistons have lost four straight, but every one of them was tight. Blake Griffin should be back in the lineup Monday after he sat out Saturday's four-point home loss to these same 76ers. Joel Embiid (back tightness) likely will play through his questionable tag, but he's coming off a team-high 35 minutes. He has missed three games this season. Even assuming he plays, I like the young Pistons to keep it close.