Pistons, Knicks Prepare for NBA Playoff Showdown

The Detroit Pistons and New York Knicks are set to face off in the NBA playoffs, with the Pistons entering as underdogs but carrying momentum after tripling last season's win total and winning three out of four regular-season games against the Knicks. Much of the series focus will be on Cade Cunningham, whose strong performances against New York have challenged even their best defenders, prompting Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau to develop detailed strategies to contain him. Debate surrounds which team has the edge: some analysts cite the Pistons’ fresher rotation and defensive intensity as potential advantages over the Knicks’ heavy reliance on key players, while others point to New York's playoff experience and deeper talent. The Knicks may experiment with larger lineups featuring Karl-Anthony Towns and Mitchell Robinson to exploit Detroit’s relative lack of size, though this defensive approach remains untested. Off the court, the Pistons are restricting ticket sales to local fans in an attempt to maintain homecourt advantage and limit the influx of traveling Knicks supporters. Both teams enter the series with much to prove—Detroit aiming for its first postseason win since 2008, and New York seeking a deeper playoff run with a healthy roster.