The Orlando Magic moved a step closer to a rare playoff upset, defeating the Detroit Pistons 94–88 at Amway Center to take a 3–1 lead in their first-round series. Despite shooting struggles, Orlando controlled much of the game—leading for over 33 minutes—and closed it out with key free throws in front of a packed crowd of 19,040.

Orlando overcame its 32.6% shooting by taking care of the ball, committing just 12 turnovers compared to Detroit’s 20. Franz Wagner led the way with 19 points, adding rebounds, assists, and defensive plays before exiting late in the third quarter with calf soreness. Desmond Bane provided a major boost, scoring 22 points and knocking down five three-pointers, including a crucial late shot that helped seal the win.

Paolo Banchero struggled from the field but made an impact at the line, finishing with 18 points while hitting 10 free throws, along with eight rebounds and four assists. Wendell Carter Jr. added a double-double, and Jalen Suggs—despite a rough shooting night—came through with clutch free throws in the final moments. Cade Cunningham led the Pistons with 25 points but also had eight turnovers, while Tobias Harris added 20.

Now, the Magic—who won 45 games this season—are on the verge of their first playoff series victory since 2010 and could become one of the few No. 8 seeds in NBA history to eliminate a No. 1 seed in a best-of-seven format “We put our ourselves in position to try to get four, but right now it means nothing,” said coach Jamahl Mosley. “We have the advantage and now we have to try and make sure we keep that advantage.”

Game 5 shifts to Detroit, where the Pistons—who won 60 games this season—will try to extend their season and avoid an early exit.

Editorial credit: Mehaniq / Shutterstock.com