New York takes a 2-1 series lead as Brunson and Towns combine for 61 points in a nail-biting finish.
The New York Knicks and Detroit Pistons delivered a playoff classic at Little Caesars Arena, with the Knicks narrowly escaping with a 118-116 win to seize a 2-1 series advantage.
Karl-Anthony Towns came out firing, scoring 11 of his 31 points in the first quarter, setting the tone for New York’s offense. Jalen Brunson, recently crowned the NBA’s Clutch Player of the Year, lived up to the title by pouring in 12 of his 30 points in the fourth quarter, including crucial baskets in the final minutes .
OG Anunoby and Mikal Bridges each contributed over 20 points, marking the first time since 1972 that four Knicks players scored 20 or more in a playoff game . Their balanced attack kept the Pistons’ defense on its heels throughout the night.
Detroit, however, refused to go quietly. Cade Cunningham led the charge with 24 points and 11 assists, orchestrating a late-game rally that brought the Pistons within striking distance. Tim Hardaway Jr. added 24 points, including a flurry of three-pointers that electrified the home crowd .
The game’s final moments were a rollercoaster. With seconds remaining, the Pistons had a chance to tie or win, but a misfired inbound pass and a missed jumper sealed their fate. The Knicks’ defense held firm, and the buzzer sounded with New York on top.
This victory snapped Detroit’s eight-game home playoff losing streak dating back to 2008 . As the series heads to Game 4, the Knicks carry momentum, while the Pistons look to regroup and even the series.
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