The Detroit Pistons and Orlando Magic are heading to a Game 7. The match is set for 3:30 ET. The game will decide which team advances in the playoffs.
Magic’s Dramatic Turnaround
Orlando’s journey to this point feels like a nightmare to its players and coaches. Halfway through Game 6, they held a 22-point lead. The home crowd was jubilant as they anticipated their first playoff series victory since 2010.
Now, the Magic are on the road facing elimination. They risk becoming the 14th team to lose a series after leading 3-1. The team scored the fewest points in a playoff half, with 19. They suffered 23 consecutive missed shots, with 14 minutes passing between baskets.
Pistons’ Resilience Sets Up Game 7
The Pistons found themselves on the brink of a long, miserable flight back to Motown. They were close to being the seventh No. 1 seed to lose against No. 8.
However, through added energy and aggressive defence, the Pistons turned things around. They are now playing Game 7 not only to advance but to reset their postseason.
Cade Cunningham’s Dominance
Cade Cunningham has been a matchup problem for Orlando. The Magic have quicker, smaller players, and taller, slower players.
Cunningham has scored 195 points in the series. Seventy-seven of those points came in the past two games. This surge happened after Orlando lost forward Franz Wagner to a strained right calf.
- Cade Cunningham could become the first Pistons player since Isiah Thomas to record 30+ points and 10+ rebounds in an elimination game.
Cunningham is strong enough to handle body contact. He is tall enough to see over defenders. He is also swift enough to blow past many.
Looking Ahead to Game 7
Matching up against Cade Cunningham and providing help for Paolo Banchero could determine the series outcome. Cunningham said he is at his best when calm and in control.
The Pistons seek to restore their preeminence from the first 82 games. The Magic will aim to avoid being added to the NBA history book.