NBA Announces One Mistake in Pistons' Loss to Magic

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Angelo Guinhawa | Last updated Apr 26, 2026 7:34 PM ET

The Orlando Magic took down the No. 1 seed Detroit Pistons in Game 3 of their NBA playoff series on Saturday to take a 2-1 lead.

Paolo Banchero and Desmond Bane each scored 25 points to lead the Magic to a 113-108 victory. Banchero also had 12 rebounds, nine assists, three steals and two blocks to make sure Orlando survived after blowing a 17-point lead in the fourth quarter.

Cade Cunningham had 27 points, five rebounds and nine assists for Detroit, while Tobias Harris finished with 23. Unfortunately for the Pistons, they struggled offensively in the final three minutes of play and scored just four points, preventing them from completing a remarkable comeback.

Orlando Magic forward Paolo Banchero (5) looks on during a game.© Bill Streicher-Imagn Images

While it was a tight game towards the end, it wasn't without issues. The NBA's Last Two Minute Report indicated a missed call that benefited the Pistons.

With 1:46 remaining in the fourth quarter and the Magic leading 109-105, Duncan Robinson inbounded the ball for Detroit. However, with Orlando tightening up its defense, Robinson took some time before finding an open man to receive the ball.

Robinson ended up passing it to Jalen Duren, who then gave the ball to Cunningham. The All-Star guard quickly pulled up for a three, but to no avail.

According to the L2M Report, Robinson should have been called for a turnover because he took more than five seconds to inbound the ball.

Had it been called, the Magic would have gotten possession without the risk of the Pistons cutting their lead.

It's fortunate that Orlando won and the incorrect non-call didn't end up costing them the game. Still, considering how close things were, it could have been disastrous for Orlando.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: