Pistons Grab Early Lead in Game 5 as They Try to Extend Series Against Magic
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DETROIT — The Detroit Pistons opened Game 5 of their Eastern Conference first-round series with a 13–7 advantage over the Orlando Magic, 7:57 remaining in the first quarter Wednesday night at Little Caesars Arena.
Detroit, trailing 3–1 in the best-of-seven matchup, hit five of its first eight shots (63 percent) and held Orlando to 38 percent in the early minutes. Center Jalen Duren led the hosts with seven points, converting both of his field-goal attempts and all three free throws. Forward Tobias Harris added four points, while Cade Cunningham chipped in a fade-away jumper.
Desmond Bane kept Orlando close with a quick seven points, including a 27-foot three-pointer assisted by Paolo Banchero. The Magic, the No. 4 seed, are looking for their first playoff series win since 2020.
Orlando is playing without forward Franz Wagner, sidelined by a right calf strain, and Jonathan Isaac, out with a knee injury. Detroit remains without guard Kevin Huerter because of a thigh issue.
The game is streaming exclusively on Prime Video. If necessary, Game 6 would shift to Orlando on Friday.
Source: ESPN
