Opinion
3 min read

Can New York Knicks' Offense Overcome Detroit Pistons' Defense at Madison Square Garden?

The New York Knicks are set to face the Detroit Pistons in a crucial playoff matchup at Madison Square Garden. With the series tied, this game could be pivotal for both teams. The Knicks have shown resilience throughout the series, but their offensive consistency will be key to securing a win against a formidable Pistons defense.


DETROIT, MI - APRIL 27: Tobias Harris #12 of the Detroit Pistons drives to the basket during the game against the New York Knicks during Round 1 Game 4 of the 2025 NBA Playoffs on April 27, 2025 at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE(Photo by Chris Schwegler/NBAE via Getty Images)

Knicks' Offensive Strategy


In recent games, the NYK have displayed flashes of brilliance on offense. In Game 3 on April 24th, they scored an impressive 118 points with a field goal percentage of 46 percent and an outstanding free throw percentage of 90 percent. However, their performance in Game 4 on April 27th was less consistent, scoring only 94 points with a field goal percentage of just 37 percent.


To overcome DET's defense, which has been effective in limiting opponents to low shooting percentages and forcing turnovers (19 total turnovers by NYK in Game 2), the Knicks must focus on ball movement and exploiting mismatches. Players like Jalen Brunson and Julius Randle need to step up as playmakers and scorers to ensure that NYK can maintain offensive pressure throughout all four quarters.


DETROIT, MI - APRIL 27: OG Anunoby #8 of the New York Knicks goes up for the rebound during the game against the Detroit Pistons  during Round 1 Game 4 of the 2025 NBA Playoffs on April 27, 2025 at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE (Photo by Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images)

Pistons' Defensive Prowess


DET has proven themselves as a defensive powerhouse during this playoff series. In their last encounter with NYK on April 27th, they managed nine blocks and forced ten player turnovers from the Knicks. Their ability to control rebounds was also evident as they out-rebounded NYK by nine boards.


The Pistons’ strategy revolves around disrupting passing lanes and contesting shots effectively—evident from holding opponents like NYK to underwhelming shooting percentages across multiple games (33 percent two-point shooting for NYK in Game 4). For DET's defense led by Cade Cunningham and Isaiah Stewart continues its dominance; it will be crucial for them not only limit open looks but also capitalize off fast breaks where possible—scoring fifteen fast break points against NYK previously shows potential here.


DETROIT, MI - APRIL 27:  Cade Cunningham #2 of the Detroit Pistons dribbles the ball during the game against the New York Knicks during Round 1 Game 4 of the 2025 NBA Playoffs on April 27, 2025 at Little Caesars Arena in Detroit, Michigan. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and/or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. Mandatory Copyright Notice: Copyright 2025 NBAE (Photo by Nathaniel S. Butler/NBAE via Getty Images)

As fans eagerly await this showdown scheduled for May 3rd at Madison Square Garden starting at1:00 PM EDT; it remains uncertain whether or not home-court advantage will tip scales favorably towards either side given how closely contested these matchups have been thus far! Tune into ABC network coverage so you don't miss any action unfold live!


Share your thoughts about who you think might come out victorious after reading our analysis today!

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