Orlando Magic Prepare for Crucial Game 3 Against Detroit Pistons
The Orlando Magic return home for Game 3 of their first-round playoff series against the top-seeded Detroit Pistons, looking to seize a 2-1 series lead after splitting the first two games in Detroit. A win at Kia Center would put Orlando in a strong position, as teams leading a best-of-seven series 2-1 move on to win the series 78.9% of the time, according to NBA data.
Magic forward Franz Wagner acknowledged after practice that the team let Game 2 slip away due to Detroit’s physicality, particularly in the third quarter when the Pistons outscored Orlando 38-16. However, Wagner emphasized that the Magic have outscored Detroit in five of the eight quarters played so far in the series, suggesting adjustments can be made.
“It’s the first time for this group and I believe we’re in a quality spot,” Wagner said. “We kind of feel like we let Game 2 slip away a little bit in that third and didn’t play our best basketball at all. But those games are over now. So we’re just focusing on (Saturday), trying to play the best 48 (minutes) that we can.”
Orlando’s defense will be key, with Wagner noting the need to “pack the paint” in the half court to counter Detroit’s interior presence. The Magic also received a boost from guard Jevon Carter and his wife Taylor, who hosted a diaper drive during the playoffs to support local families, highlighting the team’s community engagement.
As the Magic look to defend home court, they aim to avoid falling into a 0-3 hole for the first time in franchise playoff history, having previously rallied from 2-0 deficits in 2024 and 2025 to win Game 3 and stay alive in the series.