The Detroit Pistons got what they were looking for in New York City as they defeated the Knicks, 100-94, in Game 2 of their first-round series at Madison Square Garden to even the series at one.
With this remarkable win, the Pistons not only broke their 15-game postseason losing streak but also triumphed in their first playoff game in 17 years.
The series now moves to Detroit for Game 3, which could be a game-changer for the Pistons as they play on their home turf at Little Caesars Arena.
Detroit were frontrunning for most of the game and led by as many as 15 points; the Pistons, who took an eight-point lead into fourth in Game 1 before falling apart, led by as many as 13 points in the fourth.
Similar to Game 1, the Knicks staged a fierce comeback, managing to level the score at 94 after a powerful dunk by Josh Hart with just 1:15 remaining. However, the Pistons’ response was swift and decisive, with Dennis Schroder’s three-pointer giving them a 97-94 lead with 55.2 seconds left.
Mikal Bridges would miss a game-tying three with 11 seconds, and the Pistons would hold on for the victory.
Cade Cunningham led the Pistons with 33 points and a game-high 12 rebounds. Dennis Schroder had 20 points off the bench, and Tobias Harris added 15 points and 13 rebounds.
Jalen Brunson had a game-high 37 points and seven assists for the Knicks, and Bridges added 19 points. All of New York’s five starters scored in double figures.
The Pistons have not been perfect in the first two games in New York, but they have played relatively well. They should have a lot of confidence heading home. The physicality in this series gives 90s vibes, which has been fun to watch, and J.B. Bickerstaff has the Pistons playing some scrappy basketball.
The Knicks, outside of that 21-0 run in the fourth in Game 1, have not been at their best, but on paper, they are the better team; however, they’ll have to show it in Detroit.
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