Cavaliers seize control in Eastern Conference semifinal against Pistons
The win extends Cleveland's unbeaten home playoff record to five games while cutting Detroit's series advantage to 2-1.
The Cleveland Cavaliers have secured a commanding position in the Eastern Conference semifinal, defeating the Detroit Pistons 116-109 on Saturday. This victory reduces Detroit's series lead to 2-1, shifting the momentum significantly in Cleveland's favour as they prepare to host Game 4.
The contest was defined by a dramatic surge in the final minutes, orchestrated by veteran James Harden. After drawing criticism for turnovers in the opening games of the series, the 17-year veteran delivered three clutch shots in the final two minutes to seal the result. His contributions included a 16-foot step-back jumper, a floating 7-footer, and a decisive step-back 3-pointer with 25 seconds remaining, which extended the lead to 113-109.
Donovan Mitchell was the standout performer for the home side, scoring 35 points in total. In doing so, he reached the significant milestone of 2,000 career postseason points in his 73rd game. This achievement places him tied for the third-fastest rate among active players and ninth in NBA history, marking a notable moment in his tenure with the franchise.
For the Pistons, Cade Cunningham fought hard to keep his side in contention, recording his second career postseason triple-double with 27 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists. However, his efforts were hampered by eight turnovers, which ultimately proved costly as Cleveland seized control of the game. Tobias Harris added 21 points for Detroit, while Duncan Robinson managed to tie the game at 104 with a 3-pointer with 3:14 remaining on the clock.
Cleveland's Jarrett Allen contributed 18 points to support the offensive effort, while Max Strus made a crucial defensive play by intercepting an inbounds pass from Cunningham. Strus followed this with a breakaway layup with 2:28 left on the clock, a play that helped solidify the Cavaliers' lead as the Pistons' comeback attempts faltered.
The result extends Cleveland's unbeaten home playoff record to five games, a statistic that underscores their strong defensive structure and ability to perform in front of their home crowd. As the series moves to Game 4 on Monday night, the Cavaliers enter the matchup with a distinct advantage, looking to even the series score.
