The Orlando Magic have another crack at eliminating the top-seeded Detroit Pistons in Game 6, this time on home court. This has been one of the most competitive first-round series, considering how both teams finished the regular season, the talent they possess, and the depth they’ve been praised for throughout the regular season.
The Pistons, unsurprisingly, came out hard in Game 5 in front of their home crowd. They squeaked out a 116-109 win over the Magic, cutting what was once a 3-1 series lead for Orlando down to 3-2.
Cade Cunningham, who has been struggling offensively in the last three games, rebounded with a strong performance. He led the team with 45 points, five assists and four rebounds while shooting 13-of-23 from the field, including 5-of-8 from three-point range and 14-of-14 from the free-throw line. Tobias Harris added 23 points and eight rebounds, while Jalen Duren and Duncan Robinson also finished in double figures. Ausar Thompson contributed as well, with a team-high 15 rebounds.
It is a win-or-go-home scenario for the Pistons on Friday as they need victories in the final two games to overcome a 3-2 series deficit.
The Magic’s attempt to close out the series took a hit, as apart from Paolo Banchero, most of the starters struggled. Banchero led the team with 45 points, nine rebounds, and seven assists. Anthony Black, Desmond Bane and Jalen Suggs combined for 47 points.
Orlando will make some adjustments with its season on the line. The Magic are just one win away and hold a 3-2 series lead, aiming to reach the second round for the first time since 2010. They will be hoping a change can help stabilize things to close out the series at home.
Detroit Pistons vs Orlando Magic: Injury Reports
Detroit Pistons Injury Report
The Pistons could be without key starters, as Tobias Harris faces uncertainty with a left ankle sprain. He was seen hobbling after going down while contesting a drive in the third quarter but remained in the game without checking out. He is listed as questionable, along with Kevin Huerter, who has been dealing with an adductor strain.
Orlando Magic Injury Report
As for the Magic, Franz Wagner, who has been such a revelation this series, is ruled out with a right calf strain. Wagner sustained the injury during Orlando’s 94–88 home win in Game 4. He was also ruled out for Game 5. His absence will be a huge miss in the potential closeout game at home.
Detroit Pistons vs Orlando Magic: Starting lineups
Detroit Pistons Starting lineup
PG: Cade Cunningham | SG: Duncan Robinson | SF: Ausar Thompson | PF: Tobias Harris* | C: Jalen Duren
Orlando Magic Starting lineup
PG: Jalen Suggs | SG: Desmond Bane | SF: Jamal Cain | PF: Paolo Banchero | C: Wendell Carter Jr.
Where and how to watch Detroit Pistons vs Orlando Magic?
The Detroit Pistons vs Orlando Magic first-round series Game 6 will tip off at 7 p.m. ET on Friday at Kia Center. The game will not be televised nationally but will be available only on Amazon Prime Video.
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