Achieving 60 wins and securing the first seed in the NBA regular season won’t save the Detroit Pistons from potentially becoming the next top seed to suffer a historic upset at the hands of a lowly eighth seed—in this case, the Orlando Magic.
Magic Are Becoming Cade Cunningham’s Achilles Heel
Since being drafted first overall in 2021, Cade Cunningham has consistently struggled offensively against one particular Eastern Conference foe—the Orlando Magic.
Through 13 games against them, his efficiency has dipped noticeably. Cunningham shoots just 41.5% from the field and 29.9% from the three-point line, compared to his career averages of 45% overall and 34% from deep. In that span, “MotorCade” has averaged 20 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 7.5 assists per game, while committing 40 turnovers (3.1 per game)—an awfully high number.
In this year’s first-round series, Orlando has leaned into its trademark physicality, particularly against Cunningham. The Magic’s defense has clearly taken a toll, as evidenced by Cunningham’s 27 turnovers in just four games. Although the 24-year-old star continues to post his usual numbers, Orlando has proven to be his kryptonite—and Detroit’s 3-1 deficit against a lower seed is undeniable proof.
Make no mistake, Cunningham is still playing well in the postseason. The issue is that the Pistons may need more—not from him, but from his teammates.
Detroit’s Lack of Second Options Is Showing
Orlando’s physicality works because Cunningham is crowded into poor shot-making situations and turnovers, yet his teammates have failed to provide consistent support.
Looking at the starters, the Pistons feature 33-year-old Tobias Harris, streaky shooter Duncan Robinson, defensive specialist Ausar Thompson, and a disappointing Jalen Duren. Duren, who was a breakout star in the regular season, is averaging just 9.8 points and 8.3 rebounds against Orlando in the first round. Meanwhile, Detroit’s bench has been equally underwhelming.
They may have reached 60 wins in the regular season, but the playoffs are a different ball game. Having such limited options beyond Cunningham is proving ineffective for a supposed contender.
The Magic Are Now Healthy
Orlando has shown they are not a typical eighth seed—more realistically, they resemble a fifth or sixth seed with their star power and chemistry. Their regular season was marred by injuries, leading to inconsistency and mediocre performances.
Now, entering the postseason, they are healthier than ever with Paolo Banchero, Franz Wagner, Wendell Carter Jr., and Desmond Bane all available.
Banchero, in particular, has been doing everything possible—putting up strong numbers and silencing any lingering “draft bust” allegations.
The Magic will try to complete the upset on Thursday when they take on the Pistons in Detroit for Game 5.
