Orlando MagicOpen full analysis
Detroit PistonsOpen full analysis
The Detroit Pistons defeated the Orlando Magic 98–83 on April 22 at Little Caesars Arena, controlling the matchup with a dominant third quarter that yielded 38 points. Cunningham led Detroit with 27 points, supported by Harris's 16, while the Pistons shot 45.9 percent from the field and made six three-pointers en route to a 97.5 offensive rating. Orlando's Suggs (19 points) and Banchero (18 points) could not generate consistent offense, as the Magic shot just 32.5 percent and managed only eight three-pointers against Detroit's suffocating defense, which held them to an 84.6 defensive rating. The Pistons' 57 rebounds to Orlando's 42 proved decisive, and despite committing 22 turnovers, Detroit's 22 assists and nine steals limited the Magic's rhythm throughout. The final margin of 15 points came in well under the Vegas total of 219.5, reflecting a defensive-minded affair. Detroit's third-quarter explosion proved the turning point in what amounts to a statement win for playoff positioning.
