What happened: The Detroit Pistons completed a 3-1 series comeback against the Orlando Magic, closing it out in Game 7 to advance in the Eastern Conference playoffs. It is the franchise's first playoff series win since 2008. Cade Cunningham led Detroit through the comeback, capped by a Game 6 rally from down 24 at halftime in which the Pistons outscored Orlando 55-19 in the second half.
Why it matters: This ends one of the longest active postseason-series droughts in the NBA and validates Detroit's rebuild around Cunningham. The win moves the Pistons into the Eastern Conference semifinals and reframes the franchise's timeline from lottery hopeful to legitimate playoff contender. It also delivers a signature moment for head coach Dwane Casey's group and the city's first deep playoff run in nearly two decades.
By the numbers: Series result: Detroit 4, Orlando 3 after trailing 3-1. Game 6 turnaround: down 24 at halftime, outscored Orlando 55-19 in the second half. Last Pistons playoff series win prior to this: 2008.
What to watch: Detroit advances to the Eastern Conference semifinals; watch for the matchup, seeding, and Game 1 schedule. Cunningham's usage and health, plus how Casey manages the rotation on short rest, will shape the next round.