The Detroit Pistons have bounced back in time before the playoffs start after four defeats in five games. Led by Cade Cunningham, they celebrated an important home win against the New York Knicks – thanks in part to a late run in which Dennis Schröder was involved. Perhaps a small taste of round one.
For a long time, it looked as if the depleted Knicks could control the game without OG Anunoby and Josh Hart. Karl-Anthony Towns impressed with 25 points and ten rebounds, while Precious Achiuwa also took advantage of his role in the weakened team to score 18 points. However, the game turned in crunch time – in part thanks to an important contribution from Dennis Schröder.
Cade Cunningham was the dominant man on the court with 36 points and eight assists. Schröder not only scored eight points and grabbed two rebounds in 27 minutes off the bench, but also provided the highlight of the evening in the final phase: an energetic move to the basket with a foul and subsequent free throw put the lead to eight points shortly before the end – the final decision.
New York Knicks vs. Detroit Pistons: Possible first-round series?
In addition to Cunningham, Jalen Duren (18 points, 13 rebounds) and Tobias Harris (17) also scored strongly for Detroit. Rookie Ron Holland brought energy off the bench (13). After several defeats in a row, it was a much-needed victory for the Pistons – especially in view of the possible repetition of this duel in the playoffs.
New York, on the other hand, missed the chance to secure third place in the East early. Jalen Brunson returned from a twisted ankle in the third quarter but was unable to make a difference offensively. The last two regular season games will be crucial for the Knicks to secure the best possible starting position for the postseason.
