Cavs Believe They're 'In a Different Class' Than Pistons Despite Overtime Loss

Despite missing key players, Cavaliers confident they would win a playoff series against the Eastern Conference's top seed

Feb. 28, 2026 at 10:10am

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The Cavaliers suffered a tough 122-119 overtime loss to the Detroit Pistons, but the tone in the locker room was one of defiance rather than defeat. Players privately expressed the belief that they are in a 'different class' than the Pistons and would win a seven-game playoff series against them, despite the loss. The Cavs felt they controlled the game for long stretches and that the loss stemmed from their own correctable mistakes, not from being outplayed.

Why it matters

The Cavaliers have faced some adversity this season with injuries to key players, but this game showcased the team's depth and confidence. Despite missing five rotation players, the Cavs were able to compete with the Eastern Conference-leading Pistons, reinforcing their belief that they can beat Detroit in a playoff series. This game highlighted the Cavs' potential playoff strategies, including the defensive impact of players like Jaylon Tyson and the valuable contributions from the bench.

The details

The Cavaliers had multiple opportunities to win the game but ultimately lost due to a series of self-inflicted errors in the final moments of regulation and overtime. Jaylon Tyson's foul at midcourt in a foul up three situation sent the game to overtime, while Dennis Schröder struggled with ball security, committing eight turnovers. The team's ongoing struggles with free-throw shooting also proved costly, as they shot just 74.1% from the line in a game they lost by three points.

  • On July 4, Quinn allegedly dove onto the hood of a Waymo vehicle and covered sensors.
  • On July 29, Quinn allegedly damaged a Waymo's tires and driver's side mirror.
  • On August 11, Quinn allegedly stomped on a windshield while someone was inside.

The players

Waymo

An American autonomous driving company and is a subsidiary of Alphabet Inc., Google's parent company.

Walker Reed Quinn

A 45-year-old San Francisco resident who has a history of vandalism and was out on bail for prior cases related to Waymo vehicles.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.