Brunson, Payne Spark Knicks’ 21-Point Comeback in Game 1 Win

NEW YORK — Jalen Brunson and Cameron Payne turned a tight playoff game into a thrilling victory for the New York Knicks on Saturday night. In their first game together in postseason competition, the duo propelled the Knicks to a 123-112 win over the Detroit Pistons, rallying from an eight-point deficit with a stunning 21-0 run in the final quarter.

Trailing 98-90 with just over nine minutes remaining, Payne ignited the comeback, scoring 11 of his 14 points in the fourth quarter, while Brunson added 12 of his game-high 34 points. The moment was a stark contrast from last season when Payne faced the Knicks as a member of the Philadelphia 76ers, where he was known for pestering Brunson and his teammates.

“I just played y’all. I just got into it with y’all,” Payne said about rejoining the Knicks after a tense playoff series. “But I know you’re gonna bring it, so I like you with us.” Brunson reaffirmed his gratitude for Payne’s contributions, saying, “But I know you’re gonna bring it, so I like you with us.”

The Knicks entered the fourth quarter facing a difficult challenge after giving up a lead that had reached eight points. However, the dynamic play from both guards settled the Knicks’ nerves. Payne hit a three-point play to begin the scoring surge, followed by a three-pointer from Brunson, bringing the crowd at Madison Square Garden to its feet.

As the Knicks maintained their offensive momentum, the Pistons found themselves struggling, committing multiple turnovers throughout the period. “Two point guards together injected some speed to the game,” Knicks head coach Tom Thibodeau said, reflecting on the effectiveness of Brunson and Payne operating in tandem.

The Pistons, who were seeking their first win in the playoffs since 2019, held tightly to their eight-point lead early in the fourth, but errors crept into their game when they needed calmness the most. A five-second violation on an inbound pass set the tone for a disastrous final quarter for Detroit, as they failed to score for nearly five minutes during the Knicks’ run.

“It’s a great opportunity for us to learn,” Pistons coach J.B. Bickerstaff said. “Now we’ve got tape, we’ve got some experience. We can go back, break it down and be better in Game 2.” he added with a focus on the young squad’s development.

Despite a valiant effort, the Pistons could not recover as the Knicks poured on the points, with Brunson scoring key baskets while Payne further solidified his place on the team with timely shots. “I’ve been waiting on this game, how I played today, all year,” Payne stated after the game.

Brunson’s performance, complemented by eight assists, was pivotal in creating scoring opportunities for his teammates, while also asserting his dominance as a floor leader. On the flip side, Pistons star guard Cade Cunningham’s playoff debut was marred by struggles, finishing with 21 points on 8-of-21 shooting.

As noise erupted from the crowd with each made basket, the atmosphere showcased not only the remarkable energy of the playoff stage but also the collective resolve of the Knicks as they strive for postseason success. Following the victory, fans and teammates alike embraced the synergy between Brunson and Payne, seeing great potential for the rest of the series.

“Cam always has the energy, regardless of who we’re playing, where we’re playing, what time we’re playing,” Brunson said, reflecting on his new teammate’s infectious spirit. This attitude, paired with Payne’s skill set, has everyone at Madison Square Garden eager for Game 2 on Monday.