PODCAST:
May 14, 2026 ~ Chris Renwick and Lloyd Jackson discuss the Pistons’ loss with Beat Reporter at Clutch Points Eric Vincent. Vincent shares insights on Detroit’s late-game struggles and what they need to change.
DETROIT, MICH. ~ The 1-seed Detroit Pistons let Game 5 of the Eastern Conference semifinals slip through the cracks against the 4-seed Cleveland Cavaliers, losing in overtime 117-113 Wednesday night at Little Caesars Arena. With the loss, Detroit falls to 3-2 in the series which will head back to Cleveland.
Detroit guard Cade Cunningham tried to will the Pistons to victory without sharpshooting forward Duncan Robinson, who didn’t play due to a back injury, but his 39-point effort was not enough to come out on top. Cavaliers’ guard Donovan Mitchell didn’t have his most effective game, recording 21 points on 7-18 shooting.
Cleveland’s huge 32-20 third quarter run let them back in the game after a fast start by Detroit. Cavaliers’ shooting guard James Harden led the way with 30 points, while backup shooting guard Max Strus brought life to their bench unit with 20 points.
Forward Tobias Harris struggled for the Pistons, only converting 6-19 of his shots. Detroit center Jalen Duren continued his streak of underwhelming performances, only grabbing five rebounds to go with nine points.
Game 6 will tip off at 7 p.m. on Friday from Rocket Arena.
