The Detroit Pistons orchestrated a historic comeback from a 3-1 series deficit to secure their first playoff series win in 18 years. They defeated the Orlando Magic 116-94 in Game 7 on May 3, 2026, at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit.
Cade Cunningham led the Pistons with 32 points and 12 assists. Tobias Harris contributed with 30 points, while Jalen Duren recorded a double-double with 15 points and 15 rebounds. The Pistons shot an impressive 16-of-33 from three-point range.
The game turned in favor of the Pistons when they closed the first half on a 20-6 run. In contrast, the Magic struggled offensively, scoring only 19 points in the second half of Game 6, marking the lowest-scoring half in NBA playoff history.
Paolo Banchero scored 38 points for the Magic in Game 7 but could not lead his team to victory. The absence of Franz Wagner due to injury impacted Orlando’s performance significantly.
This victory marks the Pistons’ first playoff series win since they beat Orlando in the second round back in 2008. The Pistons became the 15th team in NBA history to overcome a 3-1 playoff deficit.
Next, the Pistons will face the Cleveland Cavaliers in the Eastern Conference semifinals. This matchup will be crucial as they aim to build on their recent success.
Coach J.B. Bickerstaff praised Harris, stating, “Nobody can say s*** to me about Tobias.” Harris reflected on their adjustments during the series, saying, “We did a great job at just adjusting, figuring out ways to win games.” Jalen Duren acknowledged Cunningham’s leadership, calling him “the ultimate vet.”
