The eighth-seeded Orlando Magic pulled off a statement road upset in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference First Round, knocking off the top-seeded Detroit Pistons 112-101 at Little Caesars Arena. The Magic jumped out to a 35-27 first-quarter lead and never looked back. They weathered a Pistons push to trail by just four at halftime. Then pulled away late with strong interior play and timely threes.
Paolo Banchero led the way for the Magic. Banchero scored 23 points on 8-for-15 shooting. He knocked down 2-for-4 from the three-point line. Banchero also grabbed nine rebounds and dished out four assists on the night. Banchero set the tone early and he kept attacking. He played with no fear against the number one seeded Pistons.
More Magic Contributions
- Franz Wagmer scored 19 points on 7-for-13 shooting from the field. Wagner also grabbed five rebounds and dished out four assists.
- Wendell Carter Jr. scored 17 points on 8-for-9 shooting. Carter Jr. also grabbed seven rebounds and dished out five assists.
- Desmond Bane scored 17 points, grabbed six rebounds, and dished out five assists.
- Jalen Suggs scored 16 points, grabbed four rebounds, and dished out four assists.
The Magic earned a big road Playoff win. This will serve as a big boost of confidence heading I to game two. The Magic seemed to have their way and match up great against the Detroit Pistons. They will look to jump to a 2-0 series lead in game two. Game two will take place on Wednesday, 4/22. Tip-off from Little Caesars Arena at 7 p.m. Eastern.
