Pistons break 15-game postseason losing streak against Knicks
- The Detroit Pistons achieved their first playoff win since 2008 against the New York Knicks.
- Cade Cunningham led the team with 33 points, significantly improving from his previous game.
- The victory marks an important turnaround for the Pistons, who had suffered historical losing streaks.
In a pivotal Game 2 matchup held on April 21, 2025, the Detroit Pistons ended their NBA-record 15-game postseason losing streak by defeating the New York Knicks 100-94. This marked the Pistons' first playoff victory since the 2008 Eastern Conference finals. The game took place in New York City, where the Pistons showcased their resilience after the Knicks had previously overcome a 15-point deficit in the fourth quarter. Cade Cunningham displayed an outstanding performance after struggling in the opening game of the series, scoring 33 points and grabbing 12 rebounds. This win also signifies a remarkable turnaround for the Pistons, who improved significantly this season after a dismal 14-win season in 2023-24, which included a record-setting 28-game losing streak. The impact of the win reverberated not only within the Pistons' organization but also throughout the NBA, as their performance demonstrated significant growth and potential. With the series now tied at 1-1, the Pistons will host Game 3 on April 24, 2025, eager to capitalize on their momentum. The highlight of the game was a critical 3-pointer made by Dennis Schroder with just 55 seconds left on the clock, which broke a tie and sparked the Pistons to secure the win. Schroder, who joined the team via trade earlier in the season, contributed greatly off the bench with 20 points. This game not only solidified Schroder's value to the squad but also emphasized the importance of supporting roles in close postseason battles. The Knicks were propelled by Jalen Brunson's impressive performance, netting 37 points, but struggled to contain Cunningham and the Pistons as they effectively attacked the paint while drawing numerous fouls. The game was characterized by a strong defensive effort early on from the Pistons, who limited the Knicks to a single basket in the first seven minutes of the third quarter, establishing a solid lead that they managed to protect against several rally attempts from New York. This victory is significant not just for the Pistons' season but also for the broader context of the franchise's history in the playoffs. They had not been to the postseason since 2019, and their previous playoff outings had ended without a win since 2008. Fans and analysts alike are now re-evaluating the trajectory of the Pistons, considering their potential as a competitive force moving forward. With Game 3 approaching, all eyes will be on this resurgent team as they aim to clinch a postseason series victory for the first time in over a decade. The synergy among the players, especially between Cunningham and his teammates, indicates that the Pistons could be turning a new leaf in their storied franchise history, making them a team to watch in the ongoing playoffs.