Knicks Lose Game 5, Pivotal Matchup Against Pistons Intensifies

NEW YORK – The New York Knicks fell to the Detroit Pistons 106-103 in Game 5 of the NBA playoffs on Tuesday night at Madison Square Garden, a result that intensified the series as both teams vie for advancement. Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau emphasized before the game the need for intensity and teamwork in this crucial matchup.

“Anytime you’re facing an opponent that’s looking at a close-out situation, you know you’re going to get great intensity in the game,” Thibodeau said. “And we have to play great for 48 minutes.”

The Pistons, the sixth seed in the East, proved their resilience with a physical game, turning the tables on the favored Knicks. Detroit’s Tobias Harris hit a three-pointer, propelling the Pistons to a nine-point lead in the third quarter. However, the Knicks fought back, with Jalen Brunson’s long-range shot cutting the deficit to seven.

Mitchell Robinson played a key role for New York, contributing 13 points and 11 rebounds, but struggles at the free-throw line became a hurdle for the team, as they shot just 59.3 percent overall. Brunson ended the night with 16 points but faced challenges against a tough Pistons defense.

Pistons’ Cade Cunningham made crucial free throws in the final moments, extending their lead to three points with less than five seconds left. Despite a strong three-pointer from OG Anunoby, the Knicks failed to capitalize in the closing seconds. With both Brunson and Josh Hart sidelined momentarily due to injuries, the team struggled to regain control.

“Coach’s decision,” Thibodeau said regarding his choice not to call a timeout as time expired. “I assessed the entire situation, including the score and time.”

As the series heads into Game 6 on Thursday in Detroit, both teams face the pressure of closing out the series. The Knicks look to regain their footing and push past the resilient Pistons.