Magic Johnson believes the Pistons may have found something important at the perfect time. Detroit kept its season alive with a dominant 115-94 win over the Cavaliers in Game 6, forcing a winner-takes-all Game 7 after taking over in the second half.
While Cade Cunningham led the way with 21 points, Johnson pointed to the Pistons’ bench as the real difference, with Paul Reed, Daniss Jenkins, and Duncan Robinson all giving Detroit the kind of spark that could swing the series if it carries over.
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After the game, Johnson took to X to share his thoughts on what really won Pistons game 6. He said,
“The Pistons win tonight was all about their bench who dominated, led by Paul Reed’s 17 points and Daniss Jenkins’ 15 points! They also got a good game out of Duncan Robinson who scored 14 points tonight after missing Game 5. If they continue to play this way they will win the series!”
A Closer Look at How the Game Played Out Between the Cavs and the Pistons
Detroit did not just survive Game 6. It made Cleveland look completely out of rhythm.
With its season on the line, the Pistons produced a 115-94 road win and sent the series back to Detroit for a deciding Game 7. The Cavaliers had a chance to close things out at home, but Detroit played with more force, more energy, and far better execution.
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Cade Cunningham set the tone with 21 points, but the real separation came from the supporting cast. Paul Reed gave Detroit a major lift with 17 points, Daniss Jenkins added 15, and Duncan Robinson returned to the lineup with 14 points and four made threes. That bench production changed the feel of the game and gave the Pistons a cushion Cleveland could not erase.
Detroit Pistons guard Marcus Sasser (25) drives to the basket against Cleveland Cavaliers guard James Harden (1). Ken Blaze-Imagn Images
The Cavs hurt themselves too. They gave the ball away 20 times, and Detroit kept turning those mistakes into easy offense. The Pistons were also stronger on the offensive glass, creating extra chances and keeping pressure on Cleveland’s defense.
James Harden had 23 points, while Donovan Mitchell and Evan Mobley each scored 18, but Cleveland never found the extra gear it needed.
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Now everything comes down to Game 7 in Detroit, where the Pistons will have the crowd, the momentum, and a real chance to finish the job.
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This story was originally published by Lindys Sports on May 16, 2026, where it first appeared in the NBA section. Add Lindys Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.