Knicks rally in the fourth quarter to defeat Pistons in playoff opener
- Jalen Brunson led the Knicks scoring 34 points, while Cam Payne added 14, primarily in the fourth quarter.
- The Pistons had a commanding lead at 98-90 in the fourth, only to collapse as they struggled with turnovers.
- The Knicks' 123-112 victory extends the Pistons' postseason losing streak to 15 games.
In New York, the New York Knicks faced the Detroit Pistons in Game 1 of their first-round playoff series on April 19, 2025. The Knicks managed a stunning comeback, overcoming a late-game 98-90 deficit by executing a decisive 21-0 run in the fourth quarter. This run was fueled by strong performances from Jalen Brunson and Cam Payne, who scored 34 and 14 points, respectively. The Pistons, having held a lead for most of the game, failed to score for nearly five minutes during the Knicks' rally and ended the game with only 21 points in the final period. The Pistons demonstrated great poise for most of the contest, entering the fourth quarter with confidence and on the brink of breaking their record 14-game postseason losing streak. They had several opportunities to secure the win but were ultimately hindered by turnovers and poor shooting in the final minutes. Tobias Harris, who scored 25 points for Detroit, noted that the turnovers allowed the Knicks to capitalize and extend their lead. Cade Cunningham, the Pistons’ leading guard, ended the game with 21 points and 12 assists but struggled significantly with an 8-for-21 shooting performance. Brunson’s impressive display, particularly in the fourth quarter after overcoming physical challenges, was pivotal for the Knicks. His performance marked a notable return to form after missing a portion of the regular season due to an ankle injury. The Knicks’ ability to turn the tide late in the game not only provided an important playoff win but also set the tone for their postseason aspirations moving forward. Game 2 of the series is scheduled for April 21, 2025, in Madison Square Garden, where the Knicks will seek to capitalize on their momentum. With this victory, the Knicks not only secured a crucial playoff win but also deepened the Pistons' struggles in postseason play, marking their 15th consecutive loss in the playoffs. The game served as a significant moment for both franchises, illustrating the challenges faced by the Pistons at this stage while showcasing the Knicks' resilience and depth as they pursue a deeper playoff run.