Not every top-seeded team took care of business in the NBA Playoffs this past weekend. The Detroit Pistons faced the Orlando Magic and came up with a stunning loss at home.
The All-Star duo of Cade Cunningham and Jalen Duren failed to make a positive statement through the first set of postseason action this year.
The Magic defeated the Pistons 112-101 to take an early series lead.
Cade Cunningham had a strong outing in the 40 minutes he played. The star guard would shoot 13-27 from the field and hit on 10-11 free throws. He scored 39 points while producing five rebounds and four assists.
Meanwhile, Duren checked in for 33 minutes. He put up just four shots from the field. The All-Star center wrapped up the game with eight points. He also came down with seven rebounds, while blocking one shot and dishing out one assist.
What Can The Pistons Do To Get More Out Of Duren?
GettyDETROIT, MICHIGAN – NOVEMBER 17: Jalen Duren #0 of the Detroit Pistons reacts after he dunks in the first half against the Indiana Pacers at Little Caesars Arena on November 17, 2025 in Detroit, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Rick Osentoski/Getty Images)
Duren has been a production leader for this Pistons team, with and without Cunningham, this season.
His postseason debut for the year was certainly disappointing.
After Game 1, Cunningham expressed his thoughts regarding what he could do to help Duren be more productive in Game 2.
“Just give him space,” Cunningham told reporters.
“Make sure that I’m giving him good passes. There were a couple of times when I felt like I had him–didn’t give him clean passes. Same with [Isaiah Stewart], that’s what they do is pack the paint. We just have to make sure that we’re spacing properly, making crisp passes, and if they’re packing the paint, make sure we’re making plays on the backside.”
This season, Duren wrapped up the regular season with 70 games played. The veteran center produced 19.5 points per game, making 65.0% of his field goals. He also produced 10.5 rebounds per game.
What’s Next For The Pistons?
GettyDETROIT, MICHIGAN – MARCH 28: Isaiah Stewart #28 and Jalen Duren #0 of the Detroit Pistons celebrate their win against the Cleveland Cavaliers at Little Caesars Arena on March 28, 2025 in Detroit, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Nic Antaya/Getty Images)
Every game holds plenty of weight in the playoffs. Most are going to say that Game 2 is a must-win for Detroit.
Going on the road, the series won’t get any easier. Taking care of games while playing at home will be key for the top-seeded Pistons. Cunningham will do what he has to in order to try to get Duren more involved. But the center has a lot of pressure on him heading into Game 2.
The matchup is set to take place on Wednesday, April 22, at 7 PM ET.