RealGM Basketball Wiretap

14 May 2026

• Jalen Duren Takes Accountability For Play Amid Late Benching In Game 5

  Jalen Duren has struggled during the Detroit Pistons' playoff run and the situation came to a head in the fourth quarter of Game 5 when he was benched by J.B. Bickerstaff in favor of Paul Reed Jr.

  Duren has a PER of 13.4 during the playoffs compared to 25.8 during the regular season in what will likely be an All-NBA award ahead of his restricted free agency.

  Duren took accountability for his play when speaking to the media postgame.

  "I feel I can be better in all aspects of the game," said Duren. "Continue to grind and continue to grow."

  Duren was supportive of Reed and ultimately just wants the Pistons to win.

  "As long as we get the win, I'm good," said Duren. "Obviously it didn't come out the way we want it today."

• Kenny Atkinson Credits 'Mental Toughness' For Cavs' Overtime Win In Game 5

  The Cleveland Cavaliers defeated the Detroit Pistons 117-113 in overtime in Game 5 to take a 3-2 series lead in the Eastern Conference semifinals.

  The Cavs were down 103-94 in the fourth quarter before scoring nine straight points to force overtime.

  It was also the first Cavs' road win of the playoffs.

  "That stretch right there says a lot about our progress," Cavs coach Kenny Atkinson said. "[Our] mental toughness progress... these guys, they never get down."

  The Pistons had a 96.8% chance to win the game when they were up nine, according to ESPN analytics.

  James Harden lead the Cavs with 30 points, 8 rebounds, and 6 assists, with Donovan Mitchell adding 21 points. Max Strus scored 20 points off the bench.

  Cade Cunningham scored 39 points for the Pistons. Replacing Duncan Robinson in the starting lineup, Daniss Jenkins added 19 points.

  Donovan Mitchell said that the Cavs needed to keep their composure ahead of Friday's Game 6.

  "The biggest thing is just not get too high, get too low," said Mitchell. "At the end of the day, it's 3-2. The series is not over by any means. It was great to get one on the road. Yay, whoop-de-do. But we got to protect home court."

  The Cavaliers are 3.5 point favorites in Game 6 back in Cleveland on Friday.

• How To Watch Pistons Vs Cavaliers East Semifinals Game 5: Live Stream, TV Channel, Predictions

  How to watch Cavaliers vs. Pistons Game 5

  Today's Game 5 will be broadcast on ESPN and is available to stream on Fubo.

  Category	Details
  Date	Wednesday, May 13, 2026
  Tip-Off Time	8:00 PM ET / 5:00 PM PT
  Live Stream	Fubo
  Venue	Little Caesars Arena, Detroit, MI

  The Eastern Conference Semifinals return to the Motor City tonight, Wednesday, May 13, as the Detroit Pistons host the Cleveland Cavaliers for a high-stakes Game 5. After the Cavaliers tied the series at 2-2 with a dominant 112-103 win on Monday, this matchup effectively becomes a best-of-three. The top-seeded Pistons are looking to reclaim their momentum at home, while the surging Cavs aim to steal one on the road. Catch every high-stakes moment live on Fubo.

  Game 4 belonged to Donovan Mitchell, who delivered one of the greatest playoff performances in franchise history by scoring 43 points, including a record-tying 39 points in the second half. James Harden provided the perfect complement with 24 points and 11 assists, while Evan Mobley anchored the defense with 5 blocks. The Pistons were led by former Cavalier Caris LeVert, who poured in 24 points, but Cade Cunningham was held to just 19. To take control of the series tonight, Detroit must improve their ball security and find a way to slow down Mitchell's scoring runs. Witness the tactical battle live on Fubo.

  The spotlight is also on the injury report, as the Pistons have listed LeVert (heel), Duncan Robinson (back), and Kevin Huerter (adductor) as questionable. Cleveland enters healthy and riding a two-game winning streak. Detroit will need a massive performance from Cunningham and Tobias Harris to defend their home floor against a Cavaliers team that has seemingly found its rhythm. Expect a playoff-grind atmosphere as these rivals clash for a series lead.

  Cleveland's perimeter shooting and Detroit's health and rebounding will be the deciding factors in tonight's pivotal Game 5. You can witness this Eastern Conference semifinal showdown streaming live on Fubo.

  Cavaliers vs. Pistons Game 5 Odds & Prediction

  Despite the Cavs winning the last two, the Pistons enter Game 5 as narrow home favorites. Oddsmakers believe the shift back to Little Caesars Arena gives Detroit the slight edge needed to move within one win of the Conference Finals.

  Betting Line	Pistons -2.5
  Over/Under	214.5
  Moneyline	DET -135 | CLE +115

  Prediction: Expect a highly emotional game. While Donovan Mitchell is on a historic tear, the Pistons' desperation and home crowd should fuel a bounce-back night for Cade Cunningham. If Detroit's questionable players can suit up, they have the depth to edge out a victory in a tight fourth quarter. Final Score: Pistons 107, Cavaliers 103.

  Series Key Performers (Averages)

  The duel between Donovan Mitchell and Cade Cunningham has defined this series, with both stars acting as the primary engines for their respective teams.

  Cavaliers Player Stats (Series)	Points	Assists	Rebounds	FG%
  Donovan Mitchell (G)	31.8	4.2	5.0	49.2%
  James Harden (G)	20.5	8.8	4.5	42.5%

  The Pistons rely on Cade Cunningham for playmaking, while Tobias Harris has been a steady veteran presence throughout the postseason.

  Pistons Player Stats (Series)	Points	Rebounds	Assists	FG%
  Cade Cunningham (G)	22.5	4.8	7.2	44.6%
  Tobias Harris (F)	18.2	6.5	2.5	48.0%

  Stream the NBA Playoffs on Fubo

  Fubo is the ultimate destination for basketball fans this postseason. Don't miss a single highlight as the Cavaliers and Pistons battle for Eastern Conference supremacy with a flexible streaming experience.

  Frequently Asked Questions

  What is the current series score?
  The series is currently tied at 2-2 between the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Detroit Pistons.

  When is Cavaliers vs. Pistons Game 5?
  Game 5 is scheduled for tonight, Wednesday, May 13, at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, with tip-off at 8:00 PM ET.

  Is Donovan Mitchell still with the Cavs?
  Yes, Donovan Mitchell is the star guard for the Cleveland Cavaliers and is currently having a historic 2026 postseason.

  This article contains affiliate links. When you purchase through the links provided, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Restrictions may apply.

• Donovan Mitchell Scores 39 Points In Second Half Of Cavs' Game 4 Win

  The Cleveland Cavaliers defeated the Detroit Pistons 112-103 in Game 4 to even the series at 2-2.

  Donovan Mitchell, who tied an NBA record by scoring 39 points in the second half, finished with 43 points in the game.

  "Not really trying to force it," Mitchell said. "I understand that I'm going to get looks and it's going to fall at some point. Even if they didn't, just being aggressive, more aggressive. But I'm not tripping. We were down four at half. For me it was just like, OK, now I have an opportunity to try to get downhill and then start going in."

  With the Cavs trailing 56-52 at halftime, they went on a 24-0 run lead by 15 points from Mitchell.

  James Harden, who finished with 24 points and 11 assists, credited the Cavs' defense for the second half run.

  "Our starters hadn't been great to start the games and start the halves," said Harden. "Tonight was a really good opportunity for us and we did that. Start the game and start the halves, particularly on a defensive end. That's what led to easy opportunities, whether it's 3s or layups, rewarding our bigs."

  Cade Cunningham was limited to 19 points, with Tobias Harris adding 16 points.

  Game 5 is on Wednesday night in Detroit with the Pistons favored by 3.5 points.

• How To Watch Pistons Vs Cavaliers East Semifinals Game 4: Live Stream, TV Channel, Predictions

  How to watch Pistons vs. Cavaliers Game 4

  Tonight's Game 4 will be broadcast on Peacock.

  Category	Details
  Date	Monday, May 11, 2026
  Tip-Off Time	8:00 PM ET / 5:00 PM PT
  Live Stream	Peacock
  Venue	Rocket Arena, Cleveland, OH

  The Eastern Conference Semifinals reach a fever pitch this Monday, May 11, as the Cleveland Cavaliers host the Detroit Pistons for a critical Game 4. Following a gritty 116-109 victory by Cleveland on Saturday, the Pistons' series lead has been cut to 2-1. For the top-seeded Pistons, a win tonight provides a chance to take a commanding 3-1 lead back to Detroit. For the Cavs, defending home court is the only way to send this series back to the Motor City tied. Catch every play live on Peacock.

  Game 3 featured a superstar duel that left fans breathless. Donovan Mitchell carried the Cavaliers with 35 points and 10 rebounds, fueled by an aggressive second half that kept Cleveland's postseason hopes alive. The Pistons countered with a historic triple-double from Cade Cunningham (27 points, 10 rebounds, 10 assists), but a late-game surge from Cleveland's James Harden (19 points, 7 assists) proved too much to overcome. To regain control tonight, Detroit will need Tobias Harris and Duncan Robinson to find their rhythm from deep early. Witness the tactical battle live on Peacock.

  The spotlight remains on the battle for the interior. Jarrett Allen and Evan Mobley provided the defensive anchor Cleveland needed in Game 3, combining to limit Jalen Duren's effectiveness on the offensive glass. Detroit will look for more energy from Ausar Thompson to disrupt Cleveland's playmaking and create transition opportunities. Expect a physical, playoff-grind atmosphere at Rocket Arena as both teams fight for series leverage. Catch the action streaming live on Peacock.

  Cleveland's home-court momentum and Detroit's ability to limit their turnovers will be the deciding factors in Game 4. You can witness this Eastern Conference semifinal showdown live on Peacock.

  Pistons vs. Cavaliers Game 4 Odds & Prediction

  The Cavaliers enter Game 4 as favorites following their composed victory on Saturday. Oddsmakers believe the shift in momentum and the hostile environment in Cleveland give the hosts a slight edge to level the series at 2-2.

  Betting Line	Cavaliers -3.5
  Over/Under	212.5
  Moneyline	CLE -164 | DET +138

  Prediction: Expect a game defined by adjustments. While Cunningham is playing at an MVP level, the duo of Mitchell and Harden has found its stride at home. If Cleveland can maintain their defensive intensity in the fourth quarter, they should be able to even the series. Final Score: Cavaliers 112, Pistons 106.

  Series Key Performers

  The duel between Donovan Mitchell and Cade Cunningham has been the highlight of the series, with both stars acting as the primary engines for their respective teams.

  Pistons Player Stats (Game 3)	Points	Assists	Rebounds	FG%
  Cade Cunningham (G)	27	10	10	37.0%
  Tobias Harris (F)	21	0	5	50.0%

  The Cavaliers rely on the perimeter scoring of Donovan Mitchell and the floor leadership of James Harden to fuel their postseason run.

  Cavaliers Player Stats (Game 3)	Points	Rebounds	Assists	FG%
  Donovan Mitchell (G)	35	10	4	54.2%
  James Harden (G)	19	2	7	57.1%

  Stream the NBA Playoffs on Peacock

  Peacock is the ultimate destination for basketball fans this postseason. Don't miss a single highlight as the Pistons and Cavaliers battle for Eastern Conference supremacy with a flexible streaming experience.

  Frequently Asked Questions

  What is the current series score?
  The Detroit Pistons currently lead the best-of-seven series 2-1 following Cleveland's win in Game 3.

  When is Game 4 tip-off?
  Game 4 is scheduled for tonight, Monday, May 11, at 8:00 PM ET at Rocket Arena in Cleveland.

  Where can I stream Game 4?
  You can stream the game live on Peacock with an active subscription.

  This article contains affiliate links. When you purchase through the links provided, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Restrictions may apply.

• J.B. Bickerstaff Says Pistons 'Just Wear On You' Following Game 2 Win Over Cavs

  The Detroit Pistons defeated the Cleveland Cavaliers 107-97 to win Game 2 and take a 2-0 series lead in the Eastern Conference semifinals.

  Cade Cunningham finished with 25 points and 10 assists, with Tobias Harris adding 21 points.

  "We just wear on you," Pistons coach J.B. Bickerstaff said. "That's what our objective is."

  The Pistons have now won five straight games since being down 3-1 against the Magic.

  Donovan Mitchell scored 31 points for the Cavs, with Jarrett Allen adding 22 points and seven rebounds.

  James Harden finished with just 10 points and missed 10-of-13 shots.

  Cavs coach Kenny Atkinson said that the Cavs have to open games faster.

  "I don't know what it is with the start of games," Atkinson said. "They came out super aggressive of course, but it's the playoffs. Obviously, we haven't figured that one out. Still back to the drawing board."

  Game 3 takes place on Saturday in Cleveland with the Cavaliers favored by 4.5 points.

• How To Watch Pistons Vs Cavaliers East Semifinals Game 2: Live Stream, TV Channel, Predictions

  How to watch Cavaliers vs. Pistons Game 2

  Thursday's Game 2 will be broadcast on Prime Video.

  Category	Details
  Date	Thursday, May 7, 2026
  Tip-Off Time	7:00 PM ET / 4:00 PM PT
  Live Stream	Prime Video
  Venue	Little Caesars Arena, Detroit, MI

  The Eastern Conference Semifinals continue at Little Caesars Arena this Thursday, May 7, as the Detroit Pistons look to double their lead against the Cleveland Cavaliers. Following a gritty 106-101 victory on Tuesday, the top-seeded Pistons (1-0) have protected their home floor and forced the Cavaliers into an early hole. Cleveland must find an answer for Detroit's transition game to avoid a 2-0 deficit heading back to Ohio. Catch every high-stakes moment live on Prime Video.

  Game 1 was a statement for Cade Cunningham, who carried his Round 1 heroics into the semifinals with 32 points and 12 assists. Tobias Harris added 30 points of his own, providing the veteran punch needed to overcome a monster 19-rebound double-double from Cleveland's Jarrett Allen. The Cavaliers saw Donovan Mitchell contribute 22 points, but a late-game scoring drought proved fatal. To level the series tonight, Cleveland must reclaim dominance in the paint and find better shooting efficiency from James Harden. Witness the tactical battle live on Prime Video.

  The focus remains on the frontcourt battle between Allen and Detroit's Jalen Duren. Cleveland will look to Evan Mobley to be more aggressive offensively to pull Detroit's length away from the rim. Meanwhile, the Pistons aim to ride the momentum of their raucous home crowd, leaning on the defensive energy of Ausar Thompson to disrupt Cleveland's backcourt. Expect a physical, championship-level atmosphere as the Central Division rivals clash for control of the series.

  Detroit's ability to win the rebounding battle and limit Cleveland's second-chance points will once again be the deciding factor in Game 2. You can witness this Eastern Conference semifinal showdown streaming live on Prime Video.

  Cavaliers vs. Pistons Game 2 Odds & Prediction

  The Pistons enter Game 2 as favorites after their resilient opener. Oddsmakers believe the home-court advantage at Little Caesars Arena and the momentum from their Game 7 comeback in the previous round make Detroit the clear choice to take a 2-0 lead.

  Betting Line	Pistons -4.5
  Over/Under	211.5
  Moneyline	DET -190 | CLE +160

  Prediction: Expect another physical battle that comes down to the fourth quarter. While the Cavaliers will likely fix their rebounding issues, the scoring versatility of Cade Cunningham is currently the X-factor in this series. Detroit should edge out another close victory to take full control. Final Score: Pistons 104, Cavaliers 100.

  Individual Matchups: Game 1 Leaders

  The battle of the backcourts features Cade Cunningham and Donovan Mitchell, both of whom act as the primary engines for their respective offenses.

  Pistons Key Player Stats (Game 1)	Points	Assists	Rebounds	FG%
  Cade Cunningham (G)	32	12	5	52.4%
  Tobias Harris (F)	30	2	8	55.0%

  The Cavaliers rely on Jarrett Allen to anchor the interior, while looking for Donovan Mitchell to lead the scoring charge.

  Cavaliers Key Player Stats (Game 1)	Points	Rebounds	Assists	FG%
  Jarrett Allen (C)	22	19	1	63.6%
  Donovan Mitchell (G)	22	3	1	45.0%

  Stream the NBA Playoffs on Prime Video

  Prime Video is the ultimate destination for NBA fans. Don't miss a single highlight as the Cavaliers and Pistons battle for Eastern Conference supremacy with a flexible streaming experience.

  Frequently Asked Questions

  What was the score of Game 1?
  The Detroit Pistons defeated the Cleveland Cavaliers 106-101 on Tuesday night to lead the series 1-0.

  When is Cavaliers vs. Pistons Game 2?
  Game 2 is scheduled for Thursday, May 7, at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, with tip-off at 7:00 PM ET.

  Who leads the series?
  The Detroit Pistons currently lead the best-of-seven series 1-0.

  This article contains affiliate links. When you purchase through the links provided, we may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Restrictions may apply.

• Pistons Defeat Cavs 111-101 To Take Game 1

  The Detroit Pistons beat the Cleveland Cavaliers 111-101 to win Game 1 of the Eastern Conference semifinals on Tuesday.

  All five Pistons starters finished in double figures. Cade Cunningham lead the team with 23 points and seven assists, with Tobias Harris adding 20 points.

  Pistons coach J.B. Bickerstaff credited the Pistons' first-round comeback against the Magic for his side's urgency.

  "Playing in three basically elimination games, you understand how important starts are, the urgency," Bickerstaff said. "You understand how to close and how to finish. How to get to your spots. Then you grow belief that you can. That series did a lot of that for us."

  Donovan Mitchell finished with 23 points for the Cavs, with James Harden adding 22 points.

  The Cavs committed 19 turnovers in the game, leading to 29 Cavs points.

  "You look within first," Harden said after the game. "Look at my turnovers, and a lot of them are just on me and nothing they did. It was way too many. If I had to put my print on one thing in the game, that's the game right there.

  Game 2 takes place on Thursday with the Pistons favored by 3.5 points.

• SIxers-Celtics Game 7 Averages 10.99M Viewers, Biggest Audience For First-Round Game Since 1999

  Saturday night's Game 7 between the Philadelphia 76ers and Boston Celtics averaged 10.99 million viewers on NBC.

  It is the largest audience for a first-round game since Game 5 of Jazz-Kings in 1999.

  Viewership peaked at 12.6 million viewers.

  Sunday's Game 7 between the Cavs and Raptors averaged 7.0 million viewers. Game 7 between the Magic and Pistons earlier in the day averaged 5.7 million viewers on ABC.

  NBC's 15 playoff games averaged 5.5 million viewers, up 61% from last year.

• J.B. Bickerstaff, Pistons Sign Contract Extension

  J.B. Bickerstaff and the Detroit Pistons have signed a contract extension. The announcement comes less than 24 hours after the Pistons advanced out of the first round with their Game 7 win over the Orlando Magic.

  Bickerstaff has helped guide the Pistons to a remarkable franchise turnaround after taking over for Monty Williams in 2024. Bickerstaff is a finalist for Coach of the Year for the second consecutive season.

  The Pistons finished the regular season as the No. 1 seed in the Eastern Conference. Bickerstaff will now face his former team, the Cleveland Cavaliers, in the second round.