Orlando Magic Hold Off Detroit Pistons Rally to Win Game 3, Take 2-1 Series Lead

Orlando defeated Detroit 113-105 in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference first-round playoff series at the Kia Center on Saturday, April 25, 2026, taking a 2-1 series lead.

Paolo Banchero and Desmond Bane each scored 25 points for the Magic, who overcame a 17-point fourth-quarter deficit to secure the victory. After Detroit rallied from 13 down to take a one-point lead at 105-104, Orlando closed the game with a 9-0 run.

Desmond Bane set a Magic playoff record with seven 3-pointers in the game. His shooting performance was a key factor in Orlando’s offensive output during the comeback.

The Magic’s defense played a crucial role in the win, particularly in limiting Pistons star Cade Cunningham. Orlando’s defensive strategy held Cunningham to 8-of-23 shooting and forced nine turnovers, tying a Detroit playoff record.

Tobias Harris contributed 23 points on 8-of-16 shooting, while Wendell Carter Jr. Added 14 points and eight rebounds, including key second-chance baskets. Carter Jr. Also played a significant defensive role in the victory.

Franz Wagner and Banchero provided timely baskets during the final stretch, with Banchero’s contested three-pointer with 38 seconds left extending Orlando’s lead from five to eight points.

The victory gives Orlando a 2-1 advantage in the best-of-seven series. Game 4 is scheduled for Monday night in Orlando, broadcast on NBC/Peacock, as Detroit seeks to regain home-court advantage.

The Pistons have not received consistent secondary scoring alongside Cunningham through the first three games of the postseason, a factor Orlando exploited with its defensive focus on limiting the Pistons’ primary playmaker.