Magic End Pistons' 18-Year Playoff Drought

Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner lead Orlando to Game 1 victory over Detroit

Apr. 20, 2026 at 3:55am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A cubist, geometric painting depicting the dynamic action of a basketball game between the Orlando Magic and Detroit Pistons, with the players' forms broken down into abstract shapes and planes of color.The Orlando Magic's playoff experience and young talent prove too much for the Detroit Pistons, whose postseason drought extends to 18 years.Today in Orlando

The Orlando Magic, led by rising stars Paolo Banchero and Franz Wagner, defeated the Detroit Pistons in Game 1 of their NBA Playoff matchup. This result extends the Pistons' playoff drought to 18 years, the longest active streak in the league.

Why it matters

The Pistons have not made the NBA Playoffs since 2008, the longest drought in the league. Their young core, led by Cade Cunningham, had hoped to end that streak this season, but the experienced Magic squad proved too much in the opening game.

The details

In a dominant performance, the Magic used their playoff-tested duo of Banchero and Wagner to overwhelm the Pistons. Banchero scored 28 points, while Wagner added 22 as Orlando cruised to victory.

  • The Magic and Pistons faced off in Game 1 of their first-round NBA Playoff series on April 20, 2026.

The players

Paolo Banchero

A rising star for the Orlando Magic, Banchero led the team with 28 points in their Game 1 victory over the Pistons.

Franz Wagner

Banchero's teammate, Wagner scored 22 points to help the Magic defeat the Pistons in the playoff opener.

Cade Cunningham

The young star of the Detroit Pistons, Cunningham was unable to lead his team to victory as they extended their playoff drought to 18 years.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We've been through the playoffs before, and that experience really showed tonight. We came out focused and ready to take care of business.”

— Paolo Banchero, Orlando Magic Forward

What’s next

The Magic and Pistons will face off in Game 2 on April 22, 2026, as Orlando looks to take a commanding 2-0 series lead.

The takeaway

The Magic's veteran leadership and playoff experience proved too much for the young Pistons, who now face an uphill battle to end their 18-year postseason drought. This series could be a preview of the Eastern Conference's bright future.