While most series in the NBA playoffs are going as expected, two are not: Minnesota Timberwolves against Denver Nuggets, and Orlando Magic against Detroit Pistons.

The Timberwolves are leading the Nuggets 3-2 in their series. This is completely unexpected, as the Wolves are the sixth seed and Denver is the third seed in the Western Conference. 

The Timberwolves, through the season, have had some rough moments. They needed to dish Rob Dillingham to the Bulls, and they had a slow start to the season from Anthony Edwards and other key players on the roster.

Denver has had a very decent season as Nikola Jokic has maintained his star status and has dominated as usual. 

This did not prepare the Nuggets for the defense of Rudy Gobert and Jaden McDaniels. The Nuggets have had a hard time finding lanes and scoring because of the high level of defense they have faced. 

Additionally, the Timberwolves have bench depth, which includes Naz Reid, who could be a starter on many NBA teams. While Dever is getting tired, the Timberwolves have fresh legs. 

Orlando against Detroit is even more impressive, as the Pistons are the one seed in the Eastern Conference and the Magic are the eighth seed. 

Overall, the Magic’s season has been a success as they have been able to produce more than they usually do. They also are very competitive defensively, making it hard for opponents to score on them. 

The Pistons won 60 games for the first time since the 2005-06 season and have easily looked like the best team in the league. But they are currently behind in the games 3-1.

While Magic star Paolo Banchero has been playing like an all-star, the Pistons players have been turning the ball over and missing all the shots they take. 

The Pistons also have not been able to support Cade Cunningham, as most of the game is him attempting to make plays across the court. 

The Magic’s next game is at 7 p.m today, and the Timberwolves’ next game is at 9:30 p.m. Thursday.