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The Cleveland Cavaliers eliminated top-seeded Detroit from the NBA playoffs Sunday, dominating a decisive Game 7 125-94, and will face the New York Knicks in the Eastern Conference finals.
Led by Donovan Mitchell's 26 points, Cleveland's victory makes them the last team to book their spot in this postseason's final four, with the Oklahoma City Thunder and San Antonio Spurs waiting in the West.
Mitchell was among four Cavs players who scored 20-plus points, along with Jarrett Allen, Evan Mobley, and Sam Merrill from the bench.
The resounding win on the road in Detroit, after missing a chance to end the series at home Friday, extends an impressive playoff run for the Cavaliers, who had a mediocre regular season in which they finished fourth in the East.
"We responded with force for 48 minutes tonight," said Mitchell.
"Especially in a hostile environment... that was that was the biggest thing, is just how do you respond? And not letting the moment become too big." But it was heartbreak for Detroit, who comfortably topped their conference's regular season at 60-22, yet underwhelmed throughout their stuttering playoff run, and finally fizzled out in front of their home fans.
"That game sucked," said Pistons star Cade Cunningham.
"Being back home, definitely wanted to get this win in front of the fans. Reminded me of last year, losing on home court. It's not a great feeling."
The Cavaliers raced into a 20-point lead during the first half, their accurate shooting aided by some unusually poor and passive Pistons defence.
