The Orlando Magic experienced a historic collapse, squandering a significant lead and a potential playoff series win at home. Meanwhile, LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers secured their advancement by eliminating the Houston Rockets. Dennis Schröder and the Cleveland Cavaliers are headed to a deciding Game 7 after a close loss to the Toronto Raptors.
Orlando Magic vs. Detroit Pistons (Series Tied 3-3)
Despite the absence of Franz Wagner, the Orlando Magic appeared to be in control against the top-seeded Detroit Pistons. They built a substantial halftime lead, but an inexplicable offensive drought in the second half allowed the Pistons to mount an incredible comeback. The Magic scored only 19 points in the entire second half, marking the first time since the 1996-97 season that a team has lost a home playoff game with a lead of at least 24 points and a chance to close out the series. Cade Cunningham led the Pistons with 32 points, while Tobias Harris added 22. The series now heads to a decisive Game 7 in Detroit.
Houston Rockets vs. Los Angeles Lakers (Lakers Win Series 4-2)
LeBron James guided the Los Angeles Lakers to a crucial road victory, eliminating the Houston Rockets. A dominant 27-3 run in the first half created a gap the Rockets, playing without Kevin Durant, could not overcome. James posted an impressive stat line of 28 points, 7 rebounds, and 8 assists. Rui Hachimura contributed 21 points and Austin Reaves added 15 for the Lakers. The Rockets struggled offensively, shooting just 35% from the field and a dismal 5-of-28 from three-point range. The Lakers will now face the Oklahoma City Thunder in the Western Conference Semifinals.
Toronto Raptors vs. Cleveland Cavaliers (Series Tied 3-3)
Dennis Schröder and the Cleveland Cavaliers find themselves in a Game 7 after a thrilling overtime loss to the Toronto Raptors. RJ Barrett hit the game-winning shot with just 1.2 seconds left in overtime, sending the Raptors faithful into a frenzy. Evan Mobley’s last-second attempt for the Cavaliers rimmed out. The home team has won every game in this series so far. Barrett finished with 24 points, matching Ja’Kobe Walter for the Raptors. Scottie Barnes filled the stat sheet with 25 points, 7 rebounds, 14 assists, and 3 steals and blocks. For the Cavaliers, Mobley led the way with 26 points and 14 rebounds, while Donovan Mitchell added 24. Schröder had a quiet performance with 7 points on 0-of-4 shooting from the field. Game 7 will be played in Cleveland.