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Knicks vs Pistons Game 2 Preview: Can Detroit Close the Deal This Time?
Game 1 of the New York Knicks vs Detroit Pistons series had all the drama fans could ask for—momentum shifts, a wild comeback, clutch shooting, and a final quarter that flipped the story completely on its head.
Heading into Game 2 at Madison Square Garden, one team is glowing with confidence while the other is reflecting on missed chances and painful lessons. With the Knicks chasing a 2-0 lead and the Pistons trying to avoid sliding deeper into the NBA’s longest-ever playoff losing streak, all eyes are on Monday night.
Let’s break down how Game 1 unfolded, what’s at stake in Game 2, and how both teams are looking to make adjustments.
Fourth-Quarter Fury: Knicks Flip the Switch
With the Knicks trailing by eight heading into the final frame of Game 1, star guard Jalen Brunson was still off the court—changing shoes, no less.
Maybe that change gave him superpowers because when he returned, the game transformed.
Brunson erupted for 12 of his 34 points in the fourth quarter, leading New York on a wild 21-0 run that turned a 98-92 deficit into a 113-98 lead. That stretch completely buried the Pistons’ chances and ignited Madison Square Garden in classic Knicks playoff fashion.
Coach Tom Thibodeau joked afterward, “I think he grabbed his cape.”
And the stats back it up. Brunson now owns 12 career 30-point playoff games with the Knicks, proving he’s one of the most dangerous closers in the league.
Knicks’ Supporting Cast: Stepping Up in Big Moments
While Brunson finished as the hero, his teammates were vital in keeping the team afloat early.
- OG Anunoby dropped 23 points, with 19 in the first half, giving the Knicks the early offense they badly needed while Brunson struggled.
- Karl-Anthony Towns also poured in 23, dominating on the glass and hitting timely shots.
- Cameron Payne delivered 11 of his 14 points in the fourth quarter, including the three-pointer that tied the game at 98.
That kind of balance makes New York incredibly tough to beat.
The Knicks shot an unreal 70.8% in the fourth, including 13-of-17 from inside the paint. That’s not just hot shooting—that’s offensive precision at its best.
See full Knicks team breakdown
Detroit’s Collapse: A Tale of Turnovers and Foul Trouble
For the first three quarters, the Detroit Pistons looked sharp, composed, and hungry. They shot well, moved the ball, and held a consistent lead behind Tobias Harris’ 25 points and Cade Cunningham’s 21.
But then… it fell apart.
Detroit was outscored 40-21 in the final 12 minutes, gave up 8 turnovers in the fourth, and shot just 31.8% from the field. By the time they realized what hit them, it was already over.
Coach J.B. Bickerstaff didn’t even call a timeout during the Knicks’ 21-0 run—a move many are still questioning.
“We were the better team for three quarters,” Bickerstaff said. “These are learning lessons for us.”
The Pistons’ inability to control tempo, protect the ball, or respond emotionally will be under the microscope in Game 2.
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Foul Trouble and Paint Problems
Another major issue? Isaiah Stewart, Detroit’s physical presence in the paint, fouled out early in the fourth and played just 48 seconds in the final quarter. Without him, New York shredded Detroit at the rim.
The Pistons had no interior resistance once Stewart sat, and the Knicks scored nearly all their fourth-quarter points inside or at the free-throw line.
Detroit’s big men must stay disciplined to avoid a repeat. If Stewart can’t stay on the floor, this series could spiral fast.
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Jalen Brunson: Playoff Alpha
Let’s take a quick look at Jalen Brunson’s playoff numbers with the Knicks:
- 12 playoff games with 30+ points
- Averaging over 28 PPG in the postseason
- Shooting 50.5% FG in 4th quarters during the playoffs
What separates him isn’t just scoring—it’s timing. Brunson knows when to take over, and when the pressure ramps up, he doesn’t shrink. He thrives.
“Confidence is always going to be there,” Brunson said. “It does a lot when you find ways to win.”
Pistons Outlook: What Needs to Change in Game 2?
Cunningham scored 21 in Game 1, but it took 21 shots to get there. He’ll need to be sharper, particularly late in the game, when the Pistons need a steady hand to slow momentum and create clean looks.
His ability to break down the defense and control pace could be Detroit’s best weapon—if he tightens up his shot selection.
Bench Impact Must Improve
Outside of the starters, Detroit’s bench offered little scoring punch. And when things started to collapse, no spark came off the pine to shift the energy.
Bickerstaff may need to tweak his rotation, especially with players like Alec Burks or Marcus Sasser—who can provide quick offense and tempo control.
Timeout Usage and Coaching Decisions
Let’s be blunt: not calling a timeout during a 21-0 run is wild.
Bickerstaff’s refusal to intervene left his young squad scrambling. In Game 2, he must be more proactive.
Detroit is young—but the playoffs demand quick learning.
What to Watch in Game 2
- Will New York keep attacking the paint? If Stewart gets in foul trouble again, expect another feeding frenzy inside.
- Can Detroit close quarters? The Pistons were ahead in the 4th and let it all slip away.
- Which version of Cade Cunningham shows up? Detroit’s hopes rest on his shoulders.
- How will Jalen Brunson start? If he’s hot early, Game 2 could be over fast.
Want more postseason outlook? Read NBA Championship futures
FAQs
How many playoff games in a row have the Pistons lost?
They’ve lost 16 straight playoff games, the longest in NBA history.
Who led the Knicks in scoring in Game 1?
Jalen Brunson led with 34 points, followed by Anunoby and Towns with 23 each.
Why didn’t Bickerstaff call a timeout during the Knicks’ run?
He said he wanted to “let the team play through it” as a learning moment.
Who needs to step up for Detroit in Game 2?
Cade Cunningham and Isaiah Stewart are the keys—one for offense, one for defense.
What’s the most impressive stat from Game 1?
New York shot 70.8% in the fourth quarter, turning an 8-point deficit into an 11-point win.
When is Game 3?
Thursday, as the series shifts to Detroit.
Final Thoughts: Knicks In Control, Pistons at a Crossroads
The Knicks aren’t just leading the series—they’re leading with confidence, chemistry, and execution. Brunson has cemented himself as a true playoff closer, and New York looks like a team ready for a long postseason journey.
As for the Pistons, this is their fork-in-the-road moment. Respond with poise, control the tempo, and they can make this a real series. Collapse again, and it’s a steep climb from 0-2 down.
Game 2 is more than just the next chapter—it could define the whole story.
For updated lines, analysis, and team form, check out the NBA Odds Page
