Detroit Breaks Home Playoff Drought, Stays in Series

In a decisive win that snapped an 11‑game home losing streak, Detroit outscored Orlando 98-83 to keep the first‑round series alive. The Pistons, led by Cade Cunningham’s 27 points, 11 assists and six rebounds, turned a tied game into a blowout in the third quarter. Their offense exploded 38-16, with six players contributing at least five points. Cunningham’s performance has been a catalyst for Detroit. After a 39‑point outing in Game 1 with little help, he now enjoys stronger support. Tobias Harris added 16 points while Jalen Duren and Ausar Thompson each chipped in 11. Duncan Robertson and Isaiah Stewart scored a double‑digit 10, and Robinson hit three crucial threes in a team that often struggles from beyond the arc.

Orlando struggled to find rhythm. Jalen Suggs and Paolo Banchero combined for 19 and 18 points, but the Magic missed 21 of 35 attempts, shooting only 33 percent. The team’s low output left them trailing after the first quarter and struggling to recover in the second half. Franz Wagner and Desmond Bane scored 12 each, while Wendell Carter Jr. was held to three points on a dismal 1‑of‑6 shooting night. The series remains tight, with Detroit only one win away from advancing. Both teams have a day to regroup before Game 3 in Orlando, where they will look for fresh adjustments. Detroit has not advanced beyond the first round in 18 years, and Orlando has yet to reach the second round for 16 years. The Pistons’ victory not only ended their longest home playoff losing streak but also highlighted the importance of team effort over individual brilliance in a postseason setting.

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