Harden's 23 points weren't enough to save the Pistons, who defeated the Cavaliers 115-94, tying the series 3-3 and forcing a Game 7.

May 16th - The Pistons defeated the Cavaliers 115-94. Cunningham led the Pistons with 21 points, 2 rebounds, and 8 assists, while Reed added 17 points, 6 rebounds, and 1 assist. For the Cavaliers, Harden scored 23 points, 7 rebounds, and 4 assists, while Mitchell contributed 18 points, 4 rebounds, and 3 assists.

In the first quarter, the Cavaliers initially took a slight lead thanks to mid-range and long-range shooting from Mobley and Mitchell. However, the Pistons responded with consistent scoring from Durant in the paint and Jenkins providing consistent outside shooting. The first quarter ended with the Pistons leading 27-25. In the second quarter, the Pistons extended their lead to double digits. The Cavaliers, facing adversity, relied on Harden and Mitchell to close the gap, but Strus hit a crucial three-pointer to stop the bleeding. At halftime, the Pistons led 54-51.

After switching sides, the Cavaliers' defense couldn't contain Robinson and Reed's scoring runs, and the point difference gradually widened to double digits. At the end of the third quarter, the Pistons still led 84-70 . In the final quarter, the Cavaliers relied on Harden's consecutive three-pointers to narrow the gap, but the Pistons quickly responded with their own outside shooting to stabilize the situation and extend the lead to over 20 points. As the Cavaliers gradually substituted their starters, the game lost its suspense. Ultimately, the Pistons defeated the Cavaliers 115-94 .

Pistons player statistics

Cunningham 21 points, 2 rebounds, 8 assists; Reed 17 points, 6 rebounds, 1 assist; Duren 15 points, 11 rebounds; Jenkins 15 points, 3 rebounds, 3 assists; Robinson 14 points, 2 rebounds, 2 assists; Thompson 10 points, 9 rebounds, 4 assists; Sather 9 points, 1 rebound, 1 assist; LeVert 8 points, 3 rebounds, 3 assists

Cavaliers player statistics

Harden 23 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists; Mitchell 18 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists; Mobley 18 points, 6 rebounds, 2 assists; Allen 13 points, 8 rebounds, 1 assist; Merrill 10 points, 1 rebound, 1 assist; Strus 6 points, 8 rebounds; Wade 3 points, 3 rebounds; Tyson 2 points; Tomlin 1 point, 1 rebound; Ellis 1 assist.

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