Detroit’s rising star dominates both ends as Pistons bury Orlando with statement win
Cade Cunningham looked every bit the No. 1 pick Wednesday night, leading the Detroit Pistons to a 135–116 win over the Orlando Magic at Little Caesars Arena. He dropped 30 points, handed out 10 assists, and ran the floor like it belonged to him.
The Pistons trailed early but clawed back by halftime, up 65–64. From there, Cunningham took full control. He scored 19 of his 30 in the second half, sparked a 14–1 run in the third quarter, and filled the box score with six rebounds, three steals, and three blocks. It was a complete, commanding performance.
Jalen Duren added 21 points and 13 rebounds, continuing his early-season surge as a force inside. Tobias Harris chipped in 23 points, giving Detroit a balanced attack behind Cunningham’s lead. The Pistons shot efficiently, moved the ball, and overwhelmed Orlando with energy and execution.
The Magic got 24 from Paolo Banchero and 22 from Franz Wagner, but faltered late. They went just 17-for-28 from the line and looked flat defensively after halftime.
But this night belonged to Cunningham. He didn’t just score—he ran the show, made the right reads, and brought pressure on defense. It’s still early, but this felt like the kind of performance that sharpens a team’s edge. The Pistons are 3–2 and coming off a playoff season, but Cunningham is starting to look like the kind of star who can raise their ceiling—and expectations.
