Detroit Pistons near historic playoff elimination by Magic
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Detroit, Michigan — The top-seeded Detroit Pistons are one loss away from first-round elimination after a 94-88 defeat to the Orlando Magic on Monday night gave Orlando a 3-1 lead in their Eastern Conference playoff series. Since the NBA adopted best-of-seven series in all playoff rounds in 2003, only four No. 1 seeds have been eliminated in the first round. Detroit is uniquely positioned in this history: in 2003, also as the No. 1 seed against Orlando, the Pistons came back from a 3-1 deficit to win in seven games before reaching the Eastern Conference finals. Game 5 will be played in Detroit, with a potential Game 7 also at home.
More context
Timeline
- 2003 Pistons trail Magic three games to one
- 2003 Pistons complete seven-game series comeback
- 2003 Pistons advance to Eastern Conference finals
- 2003 NBA standardizes best-of-seven first rounds
- Monday Pistons lose Game 4 in Orlando
- Monday Magic take 3-1 series advantage
- Tuesday Franz Wagner listed questionable for Game 5
- Next game Pistons host pivotal Game 5
Why it matters
This is a pivotal moment for Detroit Pistons fans. The team's history of comebacks, especially against Orlando, could mean another thrilling turnaround. If you're a fan, Tuesday's game is a must-watch. Check local listings for game time.
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