New York Knicks vs Detroit Pistons Picks and Predictions April 29th 2025

Knicks vs Pistons Game 5: A Classic Showdown With Old-School Grit

The New York Knicks are back home, standing one win away from punching their ticket to the second round of the NBA Playoffs. After going up 3-1 against the Detroit Pistons in a series filled with contact, clutch moments, and controversy, the Knicks have their shot to end it Tuesday night in Game 5 at Madison Square Garden.

It’s been an emotional rollercoaster for fans and players alike. Physicality has ruled the floor, and despite some wild swings and late-game drama, New York has managed to keep its composure—something that could prove critical in this next do-or-die clash for Detroit.

The Rise of Towns and Brunson: A Dynamic Playoff Duo

This series hasn’t just been about hustle—it’s been about heart and high-level performances, especially from Karl-Anthony Towns and Jalen Brunson.

Towns had a slow start in Game 2, putting up just 10 points and not attempting a single free throw in a six-point loss. But man, did he flip the switch. In Game 3, he exploded for 31 points, leading the Knicks to a narrow 118-116 win. Then, on Sunday, he played closer, scoring eight of his 27 points in the final 2:43, including the game-winning three with just 47 seconds left.

Brunson, meanwhile, has been nothing short of spectacular. Averaging 33.3 points through four games, he’s given the Pistons nightmares on defense. He’s had four 30+ point games already—matching his elite playoff pace from last year when he torched the 76ers.

And while the numbers speak volumes, the chemistry between Towns and Brunson has elevated the Knicks’ offense when it’s mattered most. Head coach Tom Thibodeau emphasized Towns’ evolution:
“He has an amazing touch. He shoots the ball like a guard and can score from anywhere.”

Detroit’s Missed Chances and Lingering Frustration

While New York’s stars have shined, Detroit hasn’t been far behind—especially when you consider how tight these games have been. The Knicks only won the two games in Detroit by a combined three points. That’s how razor-thin the margins have been.

But Sunday’s Game 4 meltdown stings. After rallying from a 16-point hole and grabbing an 11-point lead with 8:35 left, the Pistons fell silent offensively. In fact, they didn’t score in the final 1:52. Add to that a non-call on what looked like a foul against Josh Hart in the final seconds, and the Pistons were left seething.

Still, this is playoff basketball. And there are no excuses in a series where every possession is a battle.

A Physical Throwback: This Series Has That ’90s Vibe

Towns himself said it best after Game 4:
“This feels like old-school basketball.”

The body-on-body defense, the gritty boards, and the emotional swings—it all brings back memories of those ‘90s Knicks-Pacers or Pistons-Bulls showdowns. Even the officiating has had everyone talking.

The free-throw disparity is real: Detroit has taken 98 free throws, while the Knicks have taken 83. The foul count? 90 for Detroit, 82 for New York. Both teams have voiced their concerns, but it’s all part of the grind.

This isn’t a run-and-gun shootout. It’s a slugfest. A chess match played with elbows.

Cade Cunningham: The Pistons’ Hope in Crunch Time

Detroit’s chance at extending the series rests heavily on the shoulders of Cade Cunningham. The former No. 1 overall pick has shouldered the offensive burden admirably, averaging 25+ points over the last three games. His 33-point effort in Game 2 showed the kind of poise and shot-making that Detroit needs more of.

“He has to carry us,” Pistons coach J.B. Bickerstaff said. “It’s a heavy burden, but he’s come through time and time again.”

Cunningham will need help, though. Tobias Harris has struggled, going just 8-of-24 in the past two outings. Tim Hardaway Jr., who had a tough start to the series, found his groove in Detroit by going 11-of-25 from deep. Detroit will need both to step up again in New York.

Looking for how these player matchups might affect the betting line? Here’s a handy betting guide with expert insights.

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Can the Knicks Finally Clinch at Home?

The last time the Knicks closed out a playoff series at home was way back in 1999, when they beat the Pacers to win the Eastern Conference title. Since then, fans at MSG have watched their team come close—only to fall short.

This game presents a massive opportunity not just to advance, but to do it in front of the most loyal crowd in basketball.

But the Knicks have been here before. Just last year, they held a 3-1 lead over Philly, dropped Game 5 at home, and were forced to finish the series on the road. That’s something Brunson and the vets haven’t forgotten.

They want to end it now.

What to Expect in Game 5

This game is going to be intense. Expect whistles, drama, late-game fireworks, and maybe even a little trash talk. Here’s what each team needs to do:

Knicks Must:

• Get Towns involved early and often
• Keep Brunson hot and controlling tempo
• Minimize careless fouls
• Dominate the boards

Pistons Must:

• Feed Cunningham and Harris
• Get Hardaway open looks from deep
• Play physically—but smart
• Finish strong in the fourth

Want more on playoff futures? Read up on NBA Championship odds to see where the Knicks stand.

Stats Breakdown

FAQs

When is Knicks vs Pistons Game 5? Game 5 tips off Tuesday night at Madison Square Garden.

Who’s leading the playoff series? The New York Knicks lead the series 3-1 over the Detroit Pistons.

What happened in Game 4? Detroit gave up an 11-point fourth-quarter lead and went scoreless in the final two minutes as New York stole the win.

How has Karl-Anthony Towns performed? Towns is averaging a playoff career-high 22.8 PPG, with clutch buckets in Games 3 and 4.

Can Cade Cunningham carry Detroit? He’s been excellent in recent games, but he’ll need big nights from Harris and Hardaway to extend the series.

Have there been complaints about officiating? Yes, both teams have pointed to foul disparities and missed calls throughout the series.