Pistons stun Magic with historic NBA playoffs comeback in 2026

Detroit Pistons completed a 3-1 comeback against Orlando Magic to advance to the Eastern Conference semi-finals.

Pistons pull off rare series turnaround The Detroit Pistons erased a 3-1 deficit to defeat the Orlando Magic in the NBA playoffs, securing their spot in the Eastern Conference semi-finals. Their 116-94 win in Game 7 marked their first playoff series victory since 2008. This historic comeback made them just the 15th team in NBA history to overcome a 3-1 series deficit, following the Philadelphia 76ers' similar feat against the Boston Celtics just two days earlier. Cade Cunningham led Detroit with 32 points and 12 assists, while Tobias Harris contributed 30 points to the victory. ## Cunningham reflects on emotional playoff run Cade Cunningham emphasized the significance of the Pistons' playoff journey after their dramatic series win. 'We had a great regular season, we built a lot of momentum going into these playoffs,' he said. Cunningham added, 'To lose in the first round would have really stung. To come back from 3-1, odds against us, and to come back and win it at home - it feels good.' ## Cavaliers edge Raptors in tense second-round clash The Cleveland Cavaliers secured their place in the NBA playoffs' second round by defeating the Toronto Raptors 114-102. Jarrett Allen delivered a standout performance with 22 points and 19 rebounds after Cleveland overcame a 10-point deficit in the first quarter. The Cavaliers tied the game at 49-49 by halftime but pulled away in the third quarter, with Allen contributing 14 points and 10 rebounds during the surge. Donovan Mitchell and James Harden added 22 and 18 points respectively for Cleveland. ## Raptors' playoff drought ends in disappointment The Toronto Raptors, playing in the playoffs for the first time since 2022, fell short against the Cavaliers despite a competitive effort. Scottie Barnes led Toronto with 24 points and nine rebounds, while RJ Barrett contributed 23 points. The loss ended their postseason run, leaving their players with mixed emotions after their first appearance in the playoffs in several years. ## Next up for Pistons: Cavaliers in Eastern semis The Detroit Pistons will face the Cleveland Cavaliers in the Eastern Conference semi-finals, beginning their best-of-seven series on May 5, 2026. Both teams enter the next round with momentum after overcoming tough opponents in the first round. The Pistons will look to continue their playoff journey, while Cleveland aims to build on their strong performance against Toronto.