Knicks Outmuscle Pistons in Game 3 to Even Playoff Series

DETROIT — The New York Knicks took a stance in Game 3 against the Detroit Pistons, showcasing their physicality and aggressiveness in a 100-90 victory on Thursday night at Little Caesars Arena.

After losing the first two games of the series, the Knicks came out determined to assert themselves. Tobias Harris, a key player for the Pistons, had previously commented on the team’s lack of toughness compared to last year. “It’s a different dynamic, for sure,” Harris said Thursday morning. “That’s all I’m gonna say. … It’s part of our game plan.”

The Knicks made notable offseason changes, trading for Karl-Anthony Towns and Mikal Bridges. They lost significant contributors like Julius Randle and Donte DiVincenzo, both known for their grit. This impacted the team’s identity, which was evident in the playoffs.

In the first half, the Knicks established a strong physical presence. The tension peaked when Mitchell Robinson and Paul Reed got into a scuffle, leading to double technical fouls. Towns received an additional technical, allowing the Pistons a free throw opportunity, which they missed.

“[Reed] just came to fight. I wanted to give ourselves the best chance to win,” Towns stated, emphasizing the need for matched intensity. His team responded well, surprising many with their newfound aggressiveness.

However, Harris struggled, finishing with five points on 2-for-9 shooting, and found it difficult to defend against Towns as the game progressed. Coach J.B. Bickerstaff switched Jalen Duren to guard Towns after realizing the need for a bigger matchup.

Earlier in the game, Jalen Brunson received a Flagrant 1 foul, inciting boos from the home crowd. Fans chanted against him, reflecting the charged atmosphere as the Knicks fought to turn the series momentum.

“That’s playoff basketball,” Knicks coach Tom Thibodeau said, addressing the game’s intensity. “Play with emotion, but controlled emotion.”

With their first victory of the series, the Knicks have reignited hope as they prepare for Game 4. The battle of physicality will undoubtedly continue as both teams aim for a deeper run in the playoffs.