Pistons and Cavaliers reach Eastern semifinals

May 04, 2026 / 2:36 PM

Sharjah24: The Detroit Pistons and Cleveland Cavaliers secured the final two spots in the second round of the NBA playoffs, setting up a semifinal clash in the Eastern Conference. The Pistons defeated the Orlando Magic 116-94, while the Cavaliers overcame the Toronto Raptors 114-102 in decisive Game 7s of the first round.

Pistons overturn 1-3 deficit

Detroit completed a remarkable comeback against Orlando, winning three straight games to overturn a 1-3 deficit and take the series 4-3. It marks a significant turnaround for the Eastern Conference leaders.

Cunningham leads standout performance

Cade Cunningham starred for the Pistons with 32 points and 12 assists, while Tobias Harris added 30 points and nine rebounds.

Cunningham described the comeback as a rewarding moment, highlighting the team’s strong regular season momentum and resilience after facing elimination pressure.

Key turning point in series

Detroit avoided elimination by winning Games 5 and 6, including a dramatic comeback from 24 points down. The victory marks the second time the Pistons have eliminated Orlando after trailing 1-3, previously achieving the feat in 2003.