April 20, 2025Â
The New York Knicks staged a stunning comeback at Madison Square Garden, erasing an eight-point deficit entering the fourth quarter with a 21-0 run to defeat the Detroit Pistons 123-112 in Game 1 of their first-round NBA playoff series.
Knicks vs. Pistons: Fourth-Quarter Collapse Changes Everything
Detroit led 94-86 after three quarters, poised for a breakthrough. But the Knicks’ full-court pressure turned the tide immediately.
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The Pistons committed back-to-back violations to open the fourth quarter.
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Ausar Thompson missed a critical breakaway dunk.
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Karl-Anthony Towns posted 23 points, 11 rebounds, and 4 steals.
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Cameron Payne scored 11 of his 14 points during the Knicks’ decisive surge.
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Jalen Brunson, despite a slow start and an ankle scare, scored 12 fourth-quarter points.
Coach Tom Thibodeau credited Brunson’s “late takeover,” noting how the star guard changed sneakers mid-game before his explosion.
Key Stats from Knicks vs. Pistons Game 1
| Category | 1st Half | 2nd Half |
|---|---|---|
| Points Created | 18 | 44 |
| FG Made | 4-15 (27%) | 8-12 (67%) |
| FG Off the Dribble | 2-12 | 5-8 |
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Knicks shot over 50 percent from three-point range in the second half.
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Detroit was held scoreless for over 4.5 minutes during New York’s 21-0 run.
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The Pistons committed 15 turnovers, leading to 21 Knicks points.
Pistons React After Knicks’ Dominant Fourth Quarter
Jalen Brunson on the comeback:
“Things turned really, really quickly. The way we played defensively was key for us.”
Tobias Harris acknowledged the setback:
“It is just one game. Playoff basketball is about how you respond.”
Pistons coach JB Bickerstaff expressed concern about Isaiah Stewart, who exited the game with a knee injury.
What’s Next in the Knicks vs. Pistons Series
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Game 2: Tuesday at Madison Square Garden, 7:30 p.m. ET
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The Pistons, seeking their first playoff win since 2008, must respond quickly to avoid falling into an 0-2 hole against a resurgent Knicks team.
