Paolo Banchero, Magic Upset Cade Cunningham, Pistons as NBA Fans Doubt Detroit's Contender Status

Paolo Banchero and the Orlando Magic took a 2-1 series lead with a 113-105 upset win over Cade Cunningham and the Detroit Pistons in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference first round on Saturday.

The home victory has raised questions about the legitimacy of the No. 1-seeded Pistons, who finished 60-22 in the regular season and dominated much of the year.

Banchero had a standout game, leading the Magic with a near triple-double, posting 25 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists while adding three steals and two blocks. 

Desmond Bane added 25 points and seven rebounds, while Franz Wagner recorded a double-double with 14 points and 17 rebounds as all five starters scored in double figures.

For the Pistons, Cunningham finished with 27 points, five rebounds and nine assists but struggled from deep, shooting 3-of-10 and committing nine turnovers. Tobias Harris added 23 points and seven rebounds.

The Magic took a 61-54 lead at halftime despite a slow start from Banchero, who had six points. Jalen Suggs stepped up with 12 points, while Wendell Carter Jr. added nine.

Orlando built its lead to as many as 17 before the Pistons rallied to tie the game at 104 with 3:14 remaining.

A late 9-0 run powered by Banchero and Wagner helped the Magic hold off Detroit's comeback and secure the win.

The winner of the Pistons-Magic series will advance to face the victor of the No. 4 Cleveland Cavaliers-No. 5 Toronto Raptors matchup in the Eastern Conference semifinals, with Cleveland holding a 2-1 series lead.

Game 4 between Detroit and Orlando is set Monday, remaining in Orlando.