In a thrilling showdown at Little Caesars Arena, the Detroit Pistons secured a crucial 115-106 comeback victory over the New York Knicks on April 10, 2025. The win not only snapped a two-game losing streak but also kept the Pistons’ hopes alive for a higher seed in the upcoming Eastern Conference playoffs.
Cade Cunningham emerged as the star of the night, scoring a game-high 36 points on an impressive 16-of-24 shooting. He also contributed eight assists, showcasing his ability to control the game and lead his team to victory. Cunningham's performance was pivotal, especially as he scored 14 points during a critical third quarter that saw the Pistons rally from a 13-point deficit.
“This is Cade being Cade,” said Pistons coach J.B. Bickerstaff, praising Cunningham’s ability to perform under pressure. “This is what he has done all year long. This is why he is an All-NBA player. He has the ability, in games like this, to put on performances.”
The Pistons, now 44-36 overall, are looking to clinch the fifth seed in the playoffs, and their upcoming games against the Milwaukee Bucks will be crucial. With two games remaining in the regular season, the Pistons are just two games behind the Bucks, who currently sit in the fifth spot.
Jalen Duren also had a standout performance, recording a double-double with 18 points and 13 rebounds. He was instrumental in the paint, finishing a perfect 9-of-9 from the field. Tobias Harris, returning from injury, added 17 points, while Ron Holland II contributed 13 points off the bench, including 10 points in the decisive fourth quarter.
The Knicks, who were missing key players OG Anunoby and Josh Hart, were led by Karl-Anthony Towns, who scored 25 points and grabbed 10 rebounds. However, Towns struggled with turnovers, committing seven throughout the game, which hampered the Knicks' efforts. Precious Achiuwa added 18 points and 10 rebounds, while Mikal Bridges and Jalen Brunson chipped in 17 and 15 points, respectively.
The first half saw the Knicks take control early, leading 62-56 at halftime. Achiuwa was particularly effective, scoring 13 points in the first half. However, the Pistons made adjustments at halftime, focusing on their defensive strategies and ramping up their intensity.
In the second half, the Pistons turned the game around, outscoring the Knicks 30-21 in the fourth quarter. Cunningham's ability to orchestrate the offense and score efficiently was on full display, as he helped the Pistons tie the game at 85 heading into the final period.
“That’s Pistons basketball,” Bickerstaff said, reflecting on the team’s performance. “Defensively is where it always starts for us. If we think we’re just going to go out there and trade baskets, that’s not who we are.”
As the game progressed, the Pistons' defense shined, holding the Knicks scoreless for a critical stretch in the fourth quarter. This allowed Detroit to establish a lead that they would not relinquish. Cunningham’s jumper with just under two minutes left capped a 9-0 run that put the Pistons ahead 108-99.
The victory over the Knicks not only marked the Pistons' first win at home against New York this season but also wrapped up the season series with Detroit winning three out of four matchups.
Looking ahead, the Pistons will face the Bucks in their final home game of the regular season. Both games against Milwaukee will be crucial in determining their playoff position. A pair of victories could propel them to the fifth seed, while a loss would secure them the sixth seed, likely matching them against the Knicks in the first round.
The Pistons are eager to capitalize on their momentum heading into the playoffs, and with Cunningham playing at an elite level, they have a legitimate chance to make a deep postseason run. His recent performances have seen him averaging 25.9 points and 9.1 assists per game, both career highs, solidifying his status as one of the top players in the league.
As the Pistons gear up for their final games, the excitement is palpable. Fans are hopeful that this season marks the beginning of a new era for the franchise, one that could see them return to playoff prominence after years of struggle. With the combination of a talented roster and the leadership of Cunningham, the Pistons are poised for a thrilling conclusion to the regular season and an exciting playoff run.
