The New York Knicks face the Detroit Pistons this afternoon in a Game 4 that could decide the trajectory of this first-round series.
The Knicks are up 2 games to 1, having ostensibly reclaimed the home-field advantage with a Game 3 win in Detroit. But with both teams claiming a win on the road, there’s no real home-field advantage here. And it shows how this game — and the series itself — could go either way.
The Pistons came into the 2025 NBA Playoffs as the sixth seed. But they have shown why they shouldn’t be underestimated. It was a mistake to view them as a quick first-round exit. After all, they won the regular season series against the Knicks. And their young core, led by Cade Cunningham, and veteran talent like Dennis Schröder, have combined to give New York a run for their money in this series.
The Pistons stormed back in Game 3, which they ended up losing by a single possession. Expect Detroit to bounce back this afternoon and even up the series.
The Knicks will need Karl-Anthony Towns to be present and active for all four quarters, as he was in their Game 3 win. Towns was AWOL in the 4th quarter of their Game 2 loss. Jalen Brunson may be the clutch player of the year, but basketball is a team sport. He can’t do all the work.
In Game 3, the Knicks performed as their front-office intended them to. KAT led the way with 31 points. Brunson followed with 30. And OG Anunoby and Mikal Bridges each chipped in with 22 and 20 points, respectively. Josh Hart did everything but score, making six assists and grabbing 11 rebounds.
Still, it was almost not enough. The Pistons lost by just two. Detroit can regroup and win today, but this series will likely go the distance. But all New York has to do is rely on its muscle memory and repeat the Game 3 formula just two more times.
How to Watch New York Knicks vs. Detroit Pistons
This afternoon’s Knicks-Pistons game tips off just after 1:00 PM Eastern. The game airs live on ABC. It’s free to watch for those with an antenna or a basic cable, satellite, or live TV streaming package. The game also streams live on ABC and ESPN digital platforms.
Knicks vs. Pistons
Time: 1:00 PM Eastern
Venue: Little Caesars Arena, Detroit, MI
TV: ABC
Streaming: ABC and ESPN apps and websites, FuboTV, Hulu + Live TV, Sling, YouTube TV
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