The Detroit Pistons entered Game 5 with no margin for error, and Cade Cunningham played like a man who was not ready to let their season end, especially on their home floor.

Facing elimination down 3–1 to the eighth-seeded Orlando Magic, the top-seeded Pistons needed their franchise player to deliver with their backs against the wall. Cunningham did exactly that, erupting for a career playoff-high and franchise record 45 points on 13-of-23 shooting, including five three-pointers and a perfect 14-of-14 from the free-throw line, to lead Detroit to a season-saving win. He also added four rebounds, five assists, and a steal in 43 minutes.

Fittingly, he sealed the victory with 32 seconds remaining. With Detroit leading by just three points, Cunningham hit a fadeaway jumper to give the Pistons a 114–109 lead, effectively putting the game away. It was exactly what everyone expected from the two-time All-Star and former No. 1 overall pick and he did not disappoint despite the immense pressure.

Cunningham imposed himself earlier in the evening too. He scored 20 points in the second quarter alone, helping Detroit build a 17-point lead during the period. The Pistons never trailed in the game as they came out of the gates bursting with energy and very much conscious of their dire situation.

Orlando did not go quietly though, largely because Paolo Banchero matched Cunningham blow for blow. Banchero also scored 45 points, turning Game 5 into a rare showcase between two young superstars. They became just the second pair of opponents in NBA playoff history to score at least 45 points in the same game. It was also only the second time in NBA history that two No. 1 overall picks scored 40 points against each other as Cunningham was drafted first in 2021 and Banchero followed the year after.

This historic duel was the latest memorable moment in what has been a banner season for Cunningham and the Pistons who rose from the East’s sixth seed last year to first this season.

As expected, Cunningham has been stellar through five games in this series, averaging 32.6 points, 5.8 rebounds, and seven assists. He has hardly looked overwhelmed by the moment and, if anything, the pressure seems to have only made him better.

Detroit still has a difficult road ahead though. They are trying to overcome a 3–1 deficit against Orlando for the second time in franchise history, a callback to their 2003 comeback where they were also the top team in the East against the eighth-seeded Magic. 

The series now shifts back to Orlando for Game 6, where the Magic will get another chance to close it out at home. Detroit will need Cunningham to keep playing at this level if it wants to force a Game 7. Game 5 proved that he has what it takes, but there is still much work to be done.

The Pistons are still trailing and their magical season is still hanging by a thread. However, with Cunningham playing this well, Detroit cannot be counted out until the final buzzer sounds.