The Cleveland Cavaliers defeated the Detroit Pistons 112-103 on May 11, 2026, evening their Eastern Conference playoff series at 2-2.
Why it matters: The win marks a turning point in the series for the Cavaliers, who rallied from a 2-0 deficit. With Game 5 set for Wednesday in Detroit, both teams are vying for a chance to advance to the Eastern Conference Finals.
The Cavaliers extended their undefeated home playoff streak to six games with this win.
Donovan Mitchell tied an NBA playoff record with 39 points in the second half, previously set by Eric "Sleepy" Floyd in 1987.
James Harden contributed significantly with 24 points and 11 assists, helping Cleveland regain momentum after losing the first two games.
Driving the news: Cleveland's dominance in the third quarter was the key to their victory. They opened the half with a stunning 24-0 run, turning a 56-52 halftime deficit into a commanding 80-56 lead.
The Cavaliers scored 38 points in the third quarter, marking one of their best postseason performances.
Mitchell scored 15 points during the 24-0 run, helping to establish a lead that the Pistons could not overcome.
Cleveland's defense also played a role, forcing 18 turnovers from Detroit throughout the game.
State of play: The series has now shifted momentum, with the Pistons needing to regroup after losing their previous two games.
Caris LeVert led Detroit with 24 points, including 17 in the first half, providing a spark when the Pistons fell behind early.
Cade Cunningham struggled, finishing with 19 points, his lowest output of the postseason, as he faced increased defensive pressure.
Tobias Harris scored 16 points but failed to make a shot in the second half, contributing to the team's offensive woes.
The big picture: This game highlights the unpredictable nature of playoff basketball, where momentum can shift rapidly.
The Cavaliers, once down 2-0 in the series, have demonstrated resilience, winning two consecutive games to tie the series.
Detroit, the top seed, must address their turnover issues and find ways to support their star players more effectively.
With Game 5 approaching, both teams are aware that every possession will be more important than ever.
What they're saying: Players and coaches from both teams shared their thoughts postgame, emphasizing the importance of the upcoming match.
“I apologized to the group,” Mitchell said about his first-half performance. “It’s on me. I tried to make a statement in the second half.”
“We need to step up to the moment,” Harris stated, acknowledging the need for improvement in their execution.
Cavaliers coach Kenny Atkinson praised Mitchell’s performance, saying, “Incredible performance, really, by Donovan. A big-time second half for Don.”
By the numbers: The statistics from Game 4 reveal the challenges faced by both teams.
The Cavaliers shot 50% from the field, compared to the Pistons' 43%.
Detroit committed 18 turnovers, including 10 in the first half, which Cleveland converted into points.
Mitchell finished with 43 points on 13-of-26 shooting, including 4-of-12 from three-point range.
What's next: Game 5 is scheduled for Wednesday night at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit.
The Pistons will aim to reclaim their home court advantage after winning the first two games of the series.
Cleveland hopes to build on their recent success and take a series lead for the first time.
Both teams recognize the stakes, with a trip to the Eastern Conference Finals on the line.
The stage is set for an intense Game 5 as both teams look to capitalize on their strengths and exploit their opponent's weaknesses.