NBA Playoffs: Magic Stun Pistons, Thunder & Celtics Dominate In Statement Wins

Last Updated:April 20, 2026, 07:34 IST

Magic outlast Pistons despite Cunningham’s 39, while Thunder and Celtics dominate Game 1s in emphatic fashion as the NBA playoffs burst into life with statement wins.

The well-rested Detroit Pistons looked a step off the pace, and the Orlando Magic made sure it counted.

Riding momentum from their play-in win, Orlando leaned on Paolo Banchero (23 points) and Franz Wagner, who dropped 11 of his 19 in the fourth, to pull away late despite a heroic 39-point outing from Cade Cunningham.

Detroit erased multiple deficits, including a game-tying three from Cunningham in the third, but couldn’t sustain the push.

The loss marked their 11th straight home playoff defeat, a streak stretching back to 2008.

Thunder Thump Suns

Defending champions Oklahoma City Thunder wasted no time asserting dominance, dismantling the Phoenix Suns 119-84 in a commanding Game 1 win.

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander led the charge with 25 points, thriving at the free-throw line (15-of-17) despite a tough shooting night. He added seven assists and two blocks before sitting out the fourth quarter.

Jalen Williams (22 points) and Chet Holmgren (16) provided ample support as OKC built a 21-point halftime lead and stretched it to 39.

Devin Booker scored 23 for Phoenix, but the eighth-seeded Suns had no answers against a 64-win juggernaut.

Celtics Send Early Warning

Over in the East, the Boston Celtics delivered a statement of their own, crushing the Philadelphia 76ers 123-91.

Jayson Tatum and Jaylen Brown combined for 51 points, with Tatum setting the tone early and Brown taking over in the third quarter.

Boston’s dominance extended a long-standing trend: six straight playoff series wins over Philadelphia dating back to 1985.

For Tatum, it was also a milestone night. Nearly a year after an Achilles injury, he posted 25 points, 11 rebounds, and seven assists in a composed return.

What’s Next

The Pistons will look to answer the call, the Thunder will aim to double their lead in Game 2, while Boston looks to tighten their grip before the series shifts to Philadelphia.

Elsewhere, all eyes turn to Victor Wembanyama, who is set for his playoff debut as the San Antonio Spurs host the Portland Trail Blazers.

(with agency inputs)

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