dailyloe.com – On April 25, 2026, the Orlando Magic defeated the Detroit Pistons 113-105 in a crucial playoff game. This victory gives the Magic a 2-1 lead in their Eastern Conference first-round series. Paolo Banchero and Desmond Bane each contributed 25 points to the win.
Despite initially holding a 17-point lead in the fourth quarter, the Magic faced a significant challenge. The Pistons, led by Cade Cunningham’s 27 points, rallied to outscore the Magic 26-8, taking the lead late in the game. However, the Magic responded, closing the game with a 9-0 run.
Banchero’s performance included 12 rebounds and nine assists, while Franz Wagner added 17 points. Jalen Suggs scored 15 points, and Wendell Carter Jr. contributed 14 points along with 17 rebounds. The Pistons also saw Tobias Harris score 23 points in the effort.
This game marked the 13th instance since 1984 where a No. 8 seed has taken a 2-1 lead against a No. 1 seed in the playoffs. Historically, five of the previous 12 teams in this situation completed the upset. The Magic, who recently escaped the play-in tournament, aim to add their name to this list.
Magic coach Jamahl Mosley highlighted the importance of defense and communication for his team’s success. The Magic led at halftime 61-54, with the last two points coming from a foul by Detroit’s Isaiah Stewart on Carter just before the half.
Stewart was involved in several physical exchanges during the game, including double fouls with Orlando’s Goga Bitadze. Pistons coach J.B. Bickerstaff emphasized the need to focus on the next game, stating, ‘One game at a time. If we win on Monday, we take home-court advantage back.’
