4/7/2026
By: Jennifer Portee
Orlando kept its postseason momentum rolling Monday night, delivering a 123-107 win over Detroit. With the Eastern Conference standings tightening, every possession carries weight and the Magic are playing like a team that understands the assignment.
Paolo Banchero set the tone early and never let up, pouring in 31 points on efficient shooting while controlling the pace offensively. His ability to attack inside and capitalize at the line proved too much for a Detroit squad already dealing with key absences. Desmond Bane contributed with 25 points, including timely perimeter shooting that helped Orlando maintain separation whenever the Pistons hinted at a comeback.
Jalen Suggs orchestrated the offense with precision, finishing with 12 assists to go along with 12 points, six rebounds, and three steals. Other contributions includes Anthony Black’s 14 off the bench and steady scoring from multiple starters kept the Magic in rhythm all night.
Detroit, despite owning the conference’s top seed, looked out of sync. Missing several veterans and still without their All-Star floor general, the Pistons struggled to find consistency. Turnovers 21 in total undermined any chance of sustained momentum, a point emphasized postgame by head coach J.B. Bickerstaff, who cited mental lapses and breakdowns on both ends.
Still, there were bright spots. Kevin Huerter stayed hot with 17 points, showing growing confidence in an expanded role. Jalen Duren added 18 points and nine rebounds.
The Pistons made a late push, trimming a once 26-point deficit to just four in the final minutes, but Orlando responded with a decisive run to shut the door. Execution in crunch time ultimately separated the two teams.
With the win, Orlando strengthens its playoff push in a crowded Eastern race, proving it can close games with authority. Detroit, meanwhile, will look to regroup, and get healthy.