Orlando Magic collapse as Detroit Pistons mount comeback to force Game 7
With forward Franz Wagner ruled out, the home side now trails 80-72 and must win the final quarter to keep their postseason hopes alive
The Orlando Magic found themselves in a precarious position on home soil as the Detroit Pistons mounted a dramatic fourth-quarter comeback to take control of Game 6 of the 2026 NBA Eastern Conference playoffs. Despite entering the second half with a commanding 22-point lead, the Magic suffered a significant collapse, allowing Detroit to seize momentum and shift the series dynamic entirely.
Halftime provided a stark contrast to the second half proceedings, with the Magic leading 64-50. However, the Pistons responded with a relentless offensive display in the final period, outscoring their opponents 30-12 since the break. This scoring disparity saw Detroit take an 80-72 lead with just under five minutes remaining, leaving the Magic in a must-win situation to avoid elimination.
Detroit star Cade Cunningham was instrumental in the turnaround, orchestrating the comeback with crucial scoring plays. His efforts included a layup that tied the game at 72-72 and subsequent free throws that extended the Pistons' advantage. Meanwhile, Tobias Harris contributed to the resurgence by sinking free throws to secure his team's first lead since the first quarter, pushing the score to 74-72.
The Orlando side faced significant challenges beyond the scoreboard, having ruled out forward Franz Wagner for the contest due to injury. While Desmond Bane and Duncan Robinson managed to provide key scoring for the Magic, they were unable to stem the tide of the Pistons' late surge. The fourth quarter concluded with Detroit winning the period 24-11, effectively flipping the series momentum after a dominant first half.
With the series now tied 3-3, the stakes have never been higher for both franchises. The Magic trail and require a massive final quarter to force a decisive Game 7, a scenario that has only been overcome by 13 teams in NBA playoff history. For Detroit, the opportunity to secure advancement to the Conference Semifinals hinges on maintaining their lead in the final minutes of the contest.
