Paolo Banchero says Magic don’t ‘fear’ Pistons after taking 2-1 series lead

The Orlando Magic seized a 2-1 series lead over the Detroit Pistons with a 113-105 win in Game 3 on Saturday, and Paolo Banchero made clear the team’s mindset following the victory.

Speaking during an NBC sideline interview after the game, Banchero emphasized both respect and confidence when addressing the top-seeded Pistons.

“We got a lot of respect for those guys over there but we know how we stack up. We know what we got in this locker room and so we don’t fear them but we just got a lot of respect and we’re gonna have to bring it on Monday.”

Orlando’s performance backed up that approach. Banchero led the way with a near triple-double, finishing with 25 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists. He also added three steals and two blocks across 38 minutes. Despite shooting 6-for-17 from the field and 2-for-5 from three-point range, he remained effective by getting to the free-throw line, converting 11 of 14 attempts.

"We got a lot of respect for those guys over there but we know how we stack up … we don't fear them."

Paolo Banchero after the Magic's Game 3 victory over the Pistons
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— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) April 25, 2026

Paolo Banchero leads Magic past Pistons to take 2-1 series lead

The win marked a significant response against a Detroit team that entered the series with 60 regular-season victories and the No. 1 seed. Orlando controlled key stretches of the second half, using defensive pressure and balanced scoring to maintain separation late.

Through three games, the Magic have shown an ability to match Detroit’s physicality while generating consistent offense through Banchero’s playmaking and interior presence. His all-around impact in Game 3 highlighted Orlando’s confidence against a higher-seeded opponent.

The series now shifts to a pivotal Game 4, scheduled for Monday at 8:00 p.m. ET at the KIA Center, with coverage on NBC and Peacock. Orlando has an opportunity to move within one win of advancing in the playoffs for the first time since 2010, while Detroit looks to even the series and regain momentum.

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