Photograph per Field Level Media.
ORLANDO, FLA. — In last night’s game six showdown between the Orlando Magic and Detroit Magic, the showcase of an already established commodity took place: Cade Cunningham. The former No. 1 overall pick poured in 42 points and 10 rebounds en route to a 93 to 79 victory over Paolo Banchero’s Magic. Cunningham once again showcased his innate playmaking, shooting and finishing threats, asserting dominance in an otherwise low-scoring affair.
Conversely, teammate Jalen Duren continued his recent struggles, posting a measly eight points and nine rebounds in 32 minutes of action. Pistons fans have grown impatient with the 6’10” center, demanding more consistency out of their first time All Star.
Duren is averaging 9.8 points and 8.5 rebounds in 30.5 minutes per game this series, and some analysts have described his play as “unacceptable” at times.
Imperative to the outcome of this series, Banchero pulled a disappearing act in Friday night’s game. Orlando’s 6’10” star shot a shocking 4 for 20, going 0 for 9 from three-point land in 41 minutes. Banchero’s contribution to the Magic’s astonishing run to this point is immeasurable, but if Orlando wishes to close the series out they’ll need everything they can get out of the former number one overall pick.
Worthy of note, German sensation Franz Wagner did not play in last night’s potential close out game.
His presence was greatly missed, as the Magic had just three triple-digit scorers and were out-rebounded 52 to 38. Before his untimely exit, Wagner was averaging 16.8 points and 5.3 rebounds, also boasting a collective plus-19 rating across five games this series.
A heavyweight matchup awaits us tomorrow, Sunday, May 3. Expect Cunningham and Banchero to exchange blows, fighting until the last man stands. Should the likes of Duren and Wagner show up to game seven, you’re in for a treat.
I see the Pistons taking this one, on the back of Cunningham, who’ll do what he always does.
