Pistons Secure Game 1 Victory Over Cavaliers in Eastern Conference Semifinals
The Detroit Pistons defeated the Cleveland Cavaliers 111-101 in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference semifinals, ending a 12-game playoff losing streak against Cleveland.
The Detroit Pistons opened the Eastern Conference semifinals with a 111-101 victory over the Cleveland Cavaliers on Tuesday night at Little Caesars Arena. Cade Cunningham led the Pistons with 23 points and seven assists, while Tobias Harris contributed 20 points and eight rebounds. Duncan Robinson added 19 points to the effort.
This win snapped Detroit's 12-game postseason losing streak against Cleveland, a drought dating back to the 2007 Eastern Conference Finals.
For the Cavaliers, Donovan Mitchell scored 23 points, ending his NBA-record streak of scoring 30-plus points in nine consecutive series openers. James Harden added 22 points, including 13 in the final quarter, and Max Strus contributed 19 points.
The Pistons established an early lead, finishing the first quarter ahead 37-31 and extending their advantage to 59-46 by halftime. Although the Cavaliers managed to tie the game at 93-all with 5:28 remaining, Detroit responded with a decisive run. Jalen Duren blocked a shot from Harden and followed up with three consecutive dunks, each assisted by Cunningham, to secure the win.
Game 2 of the series is scheduled for Thursday night in Detroit.